VERO BEACH — American Airlines will launch daily flights from Vero Beach Regional Airport to its hub in Charlotte, North Carolina, starting next year, marking the third commercial carrier to serve the small Florida airport and promising a boost to local tourism and business connections.
The service begins Feb. 12, 2026, with one roundtrip flight each day on a Bombardier CRJ900 regional jet that seats between 76 and 90 passengers, the airline announced Thursday. Tickets go on sale Monday.
The addition comes as Vero Beach sees growing interest from airlines. Breeze Airways has operated from the airport since 2023, offering routes to various Northeast and Midwest destinations. JetBlue Airways is set to join in December with daily flights to New York and Boston.
Airport Director Todd Scher said the new route enhances travel options for both locals and visitors.
“We are excited to welcome American Airlines’ new service to North Carolina,” Scher said. “This new route not only provides greater convenience, but also enhances business and leisure opportunities between Vero Beach and one of the region’s major hubs to connect travelers to the world.”
Charlotte Douglas International Airport, American’s second-largest hub after Dallas-Fort Worth, handles more than 670 daily flights to over 170 destinations in 27 countries. It’s also the largest city in North Carolina and ranks as the nation’s second-biggest banking center, behind New York.
Mark Litten, vice president of economic development for the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, said the connection could draw more investors and tourists to the area, known for its beaches, arts scene and proximity to Orlando.
“It will create easier access for visitors, business leaders and potential investors,” Litten said. “American Airlines’ presence highlights the growth and vitality of our community, and it will help us showcase all that the Treasure Coast has to offer.”
Jordan Pack, American’s director of domestic network planning, emphasized the mutual benefits.
“We are thrilled to bring new service to Vero Beach,” Pack said in a statement. “Our flight to Charlotte is designed to maximize nationwide connectivity, helping bring tourists to the region’s relaxing atmosphere and beautiful beaches. For local residents, American’s service provides the ease and convenience of flying out of their home airport to destinations across our network with just one stop.”
The expansion isn’t without challenges. Vero Beach Mayor John Cotugno welcomed the news but cautioned about strains on the airport’s infrastructure, which he described as basic by industry standards. The terminal’s TSA screening areas, waiting rooms and parking lots may need upgrades to handle increased traffic.
“While this means Vero Beach has been discovered, and we have easier access to more destinations, our infrastructure was not designed around having three airlines, and I anticipate some growing pains,” Cotugno said in a released statement.
The airport is already in the midst of renovations, including plans for 500 new parking spaces. Officials said further expansions could be necessary if passenger numbers rise as expected.
Vero Beach Regional Airport, formerly a naval air station during World War II, has seen commercial service ebb and flow over the years. The arrival of major carriers like American reflects broader trends in regional aviation, where smaller airports are attracting low-cost and legacy airlines amid post-pandemic travel demand.
American, the world’s largest airline by fleet size, operates hubs across the U.S. and serves more than 350 destinations in over 60 countries. The Vero Beach route is part of its ongoing efforts to expand domestic connectivity.
