Alaska Airlines will begin nonstop seasonal flights between Sonoma County and Palm Springs on October 26, 2025, offering five flights each week during the winter. This new route connects two popular leisure destinations in California, making travel easier for both tourists and business travelers.
The airline’s decision to launch this service comes after strong demand for direct flights between Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (Santa Rosa, STS) and Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Alaska Airlines, already the largest carrier at both airports, aims to fill a gap in direct air service between these regions. Tickets for the new flights are available now on the Alaska Airlines website, and the route will use the Embraer E175, a comfortable regional jet.
Key Details of the New Route
- Start Date: October 26, 2025
- Frequency: Five flights per week, operating during the winter season
- Airports: Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) and Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)
- Aircraft: Embraer E175
- Booking: Tickets available now on Alaska Airlines’ official website
- Special Perk: Passengers flying from Santa Rosa can check a case of wine for free through the “Wine Flies Free” program
Alaska Airlines announced the new service on July 31, 2025, as part of a larger expansion of its West Coast network. The airline highlighted the new route as a way to connect “the warm desert and the coolness of wine country,” making it easier for travelers to enjoy both regions without the hassle of layovers.
Community and Stakeholder Reactions
Officials at Sonoma County Airport celebrated the announcement, calling it a major win for the region. The new flights will give both leisure and business travelers more options, making it easier to visit family, attend events, or explore new business opportunities. The City of Palm Springs also welcomed the news, noting that direct flights from Northern California’s wine country will boost tourism and help local businesses.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this route is expected to increase visitor numbers in both directions. Wineries, resorts, and small businesses in Sonoma County and Palm Springs will likely see more customers, especially during the busy winter months when people seek warm weather or wine country experiences.
Why This Route Matters
This new service is the eighth destination Alaska Airlines serves from Santa Rosa, showing the airline’s ongoing investment in the North Bay area. By offering direct flights, Alaska Airlines removes the need for travelers to connect through larger airports like San Francisco or Los Angeles. This saves time and reduces the stress of travel, especially for families and older adults.
For Sonoma County, the route means easier access to the desert resorts and events in Palm Springs. For Palm Springs, it opens the door to wine tourism and the unique attractions of Northern California. The airline’s “Wine Flies Free” program, which lets passengers check a case of wine at no extra cost when flying from Santa Rosa, adds a special touch for wine lovers.
How to Book a Flight
Booking a ticket on this new route is simple:
- Go to the Alaska Airlines website or use their mobile app.
- Search for flights between STS (Santa Rosa) and PSP (Palm Springs) with travel dates on or after October 26, 2025.
- Choose from the available nonstop flights, which operate five days a week during the winter.
- Complete your booking and check if you qualify for the “Wine Flies Free” program if you’re leaving from Santa Rosa.
Travelers can also find more information about the airports on the Sonoma County Airport website and the Palm Springs city website.
Economic and Tourism Impact
Local business leaders in both Sonoma County and Palm Springs expect the new flights to bring more visitors and new opportunities for marketing partnerships, especially in the wine and hospitality industries. The direct connection is likely to encourage more people to plan weekend getaways, attend festivals, or visit family and friends.
Tourism boards in both regions have expressed strong support for the new route. They believe it will help local hotels, restaurants, and shops by making it easier for travelers to reach their destinations. The flights also support business travel, connecting the North Bay and Coachella Valley regions for meetings, conferences, and other work-related trips.
Expert Perspectives
Travel industry analysts see this move as a smart way for Alaska Airlines to capture more leisure travel demand and strengthen its network on the West Coast. By adding nonstop flights between Sonoma County and Palm Springs, the airline can attract travelers who want convenience and comfort.
Airport officials in both cities have praised the decision. They point out that the new service will help both airports grow and offer more choices to the community. The Embraer E175 aircraft used for the route is known for its comfort and reliability, making it a good fit for short-haul flights like this one.
Looking Ahead: Possible Expansion
If the new route proves popular, Alaska Airlines may consider extending service beyond the winter season or adding more flights each week. The airline and both airports will closely watch passenger numbers and gather feedback from the community during the first season. This information will help them decide whether to make the route a year-round option.
The announcement is part of a larger expansion by Alaska Airlines, which is also adding new routes from Burbank, Boise, and San Diego. This shows the airline’s commitment to growing its presence in California and meeting the needs of travelers.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Book Early: Since the route is seasonal and flights are limited to five per week, booking early can help secure the best fares and preferred travel dates.
- Check Wine Perks: If you’re flying from Santa Rosa, take advantage of the “Wine Flies Free” program. Make sure to review the rules on the Alaska Airlines website before packing your wine.
- Plan for Winter: The service runs during the winter season, which is a popular time for both wine country and desert vacations. Consider booking hotels and activities in advance.
Official Resources
For more details about the new route, flight schedules, and airport services, visit the Alaska Airlines website. For general information about air travel regulations and passenger rights, the U.S. Department of Transportation provides helpful resources.
This new nonstop service between Sonoma County and Palm Springs marks a big step forward in California’s regional air travel. With strong support from local governments, tourism boards, and the airline, travelers can look forward to more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable trips between these two unique destinations.
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