On July 22, 2025, the North Central West Virginia Airport Authority announced that American Airlines will become the new Essential Air Service (EAS) provider at North Central West Virginia Airport in Bridgeport. This move, pending final approval from federal agencies, marks a major shift for the region’s air travel options and is expected to bring significant changes for local travelers, businesses, and the broader community.
A Major Airline Comes to Bridgeport
American Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the United States 🇺🇸, was chosen after a competitive selection process that included proposals from other major airlines like Delta and United. The Airport Authority’s decision follows months of review and input from local officials, business leaders, and community members. The new service will connect North Central West Virginia Airport directly to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, a major hub in the American Airlines network.
The selection is not yet final. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) must review and approve the contract, as is standard for all EAS agreements. This review process ensures that the service meets federal requirements and that the subsidy is used properly.
What Is Essential Air Service and Why Does It Matter?
The Essential Air Service program is a federal effort designed to keep small and rural airports connected to the national air transportation system. Many communities like Bridgeport rely on these subsidies because airlines might not otherwise find it profitable to serve smaller markets. The EAS program helps cover the cost difference, making sure residents and businesses in these areas can access flights to major cities.
For North Central West Virginia Airport, the EAS program is especially important. The area is considered economically distressed, which means it qualifies for a higher level of federal support. In fact, the airport is eligible for a 95% federal share for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants in the current fiscal year. This extra funding helps pay for upgrades, maintenance, and new projects that keep the airport running smoothly.
Details of the New American Airlines Service
According to the Airport Authority, American Airlines has proposed to operate daily flights between North Central West Virginia Airport and Chicago O’Hare. The plan is to offer about five round-trip flights each week, though the exact schedule will be set once the DOT gives its final approval. These flights will be subsidized under the EAS program, ensuring that ticket prices remain affordable and that the airline can cover its costs.
Once the contract is signed and approved, American Airlines will work with the airport to set up schedules, ticket sales, and marketing. Service is expected to begin within 60 to 90 days after the contract is finalized. Travelers will be able to book flights through American Airlines’ website and other standard channels.
Why the Switch from Contour Airlines?
Before this change, Contour Airlines held the EAS contract at North Central West Virginia Airport, offering subsidized flights to Charlotte. The switch to American Airlines and a new destination—Chicago—reflects a strategic decision by the Airport Authority. By partnering with a major national carrier, the airport hopes to:
- Increase passenger confidence by offering flights with a well-known airline
- Provide better connections to American Airlines’ global network through Chicago O’Hare
- Boost local economic development by making the region more accessible to businesses and visitors
David Hinkle, President of the Airport Authority, and Shawn Long, Deputy Director, have both stressed the importance of this move for the region’s future. “Securing a major national carrier is a game-changer for our community,” Hinkle said. “It opens up new opportunities for travel, business, and growth.”
Economic and Community Impact
The arrival of American Airlines is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the region. Local officials from Clarksburg and Fairmont, as well as state representatives, have been notified of the change and are optimistic about the benefits.
Some of the expected impacts include:
- More travel options: Residents will have easier access to a major hub, making it simpler to reach destinations across the United States 🇺🇸 and around the world.
- Business growth: Companies looking to invest or expand in the area will find it easier to connect with partners, clients, and suppliers.
- Tourism boost: Improved air service can attract more visitors, supporting hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.
- Job creation: As the airport grows, new jobs may be created in aviation, hospitality, and related fields.
The airport is also in the middle of a $27 million terminal expansion project, set to finish in the second half of 2024. This new terminal will provide more space, better amenities, and a modern experience for travelers. The timing of the American Airlines partnership is expected to help fill the new terminal with more passengers and flights.
How the Selection Process Worked
The process of choosing a new EAS provider is detailed and involves several steps:
- Request for Proposals: The Airport Authority invited airlines to submit proposals for EAS service at North Central West Virginia Airport.
- Review of Proposals: Four major proposals were received, including offers from American, Delta, and United.
- Community Input: Local leaders and community members provided feedback on the proposals, focusing on reliability, destinations, and airline reputation.
- Selection: The Airport Authority chose American Airlines based on its strong network, brand recognition, and proposed service to Chicago.
- Federal Review: The selection was sent to the FAA and DOT for final approval, as required by law.
This process ensures that the chosen airline can meet the community’s needs and that federal funds are used responsibly.
What Happens Next?
Now that the Airport Authority has made its choice, several steps remain before the new service begins:
- DOT Approval: The U.S. Department of Transportation will review the contract to make sure it meets all requirements. This includes checking the level of service, subsidy amount, and compliance with EAS rules. You can learn more about the EAS program and its requirements on the official DOT EAS page.
- Contract Signing: Once approved, a formal contract will be signed with American Airlines. This contract will spell out the number of flights, the amount of subsidy, and other important details.
- Service Launch: American Airlines will work with the airport to set up schedules, ticketing, and marketing. Service is expected to start within two to three months after the contract is finalized.
- Booking: Passengers will be able to book flights through American Airlines’ website, travel agents, and other standard channels.
Background: The EAS Program and North Central West Virginia Airport
The Essential Air Service program was created after airline deregulation in the late 1970s. Its goal is to make sure small and rural communities do not lose access to air travel as airlines focus on larger, more profitable markets. The program provides subsidies to airlines willing to serve these communities, helping to cover the gap between operating costs and ticket revenue.
North Central West Virginia Airport has been part of the EAS program since the early 2000s. Over the years, several airlines have provided subsidized service, connecting the region to major hubs like Charlotte and now Chicago. The airport’s annual EAS subsidy has often exceeded $5.5 million, reflecting the importance of this support for keeping flights available.
The airport is also investing in its future. The new terminal and commercial development projects are designed to attract more airlines, increase passenger numbers, and support local economic growth. These improvements, combined with the arrival of American Airlines, are expected to raise the airport’s profile and make it a key transportation hub for the region.
Federal Policy and the Future of EAS
The EAS program has faced challenges in recent years, with some lawmakers questioning its cost and effectiveness. In July 2025, Congress passed the “Big Beautiful Bill,” which included debates about the future of rural air subsidies. Despite these discussions, North Central West Virginia Airport remains eligible and fully funded for the current fiscal year.
Local officials and business leaders are watching these debates closely. They know that continued federal support is vital for keeping air service in the region. For now, the airport’s EAS contract and funding are secure, but the long-term future of the program will depend on decisions made in Washington, D.C.
Expert and Community Perspectives
Aviation experts say that securing a “Big Three” carrier like American Airlines is a rare achievement for a small EAS airport. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this move is likely to improve reliability, increase passenger numbers, and provide a better travel experience. “Having a major airline at a small airport can make a huge difference,” one analyst noted. “It gives travelers more confidence and opens up new possibilities for the community.”
Community members and local businesses have also expressed strong support for the change. Many believe that the new service will bring more travel options, attract new businesses, and help the region grow. However, some remain concerned about the stability of federal EAS funding, especially in light of recent legislative changes. For now, immediate service is not at risk, but the community will need to stay engaged and advocate for continued support.
Practical Guidance for Travelers and Residents
If you live in the North Central West Virginia region or plan to travel through the airport, here’s what you need to know:
- Watch for Announcements: The airport and American Airlines will announce the start date for the new service once the contract is approved.
- Check Schedules: Flight schedules will be available on American Airlines’ website and the airport’s official site.
- Book Early: As a new service, flights may fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times.
- Stay Informed: For updates on the EAS program, contract details, and airport improvements, visit the North Central West Virginia Airport’s official website.
If you have questions about the EAS program or want to review official documents, you can contact the U.S. Department of Transportation’s EAS Program office by email at [email protected] or by phone at (202) 366-5903.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Region
The arrival of American Airlines as the Essential Air Service provider at North Central West Virginia Airport is more than just a change in airline. It represents a new chapter for the region, with the potential to bring more jobs, business opportunities, and travel options. As the airport completes its terminal expansion and looks to the future, the community is hopeful that this partnership will drive growth and make the region an even better place to live, work, and visit.
At the same time, the community must remain aware of the broader policy debates that could affect the EAS program in the years ahead. Continued advocacy and engagement will be key to ensuring that small and rural airports like North Central West Virginia Airport continue to receive the support they need.
For now, the focus is on preparing for the launch of American Airlines service, welcoming new travelers, and building on the momentum created by this important decision. The next few months will be a time of transition and opportunity for everyone connected to the airport and the region it serves.
Learn Today
Essential Air Service (EAS) → A federal program subsidizing flights to small airports to maintain national air connectivity.
Airport Improvement Program (AIP) → Federal grants funding airport upgrades, maintenance, and development projects.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) → U.S. agency regulating civil aviation, including EAS contract oversight and approvals.
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) → Government department overseeing transportation policies, including EAS contract reviews and approvals.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport → Major American Airlines hub airport connecting to multiple domestic and international destinations.
This Article in a Nutshell
American Airlines will soon serve North Central West Virginia Airport as its Essential Air Service provider, pending government approval. This promises better connectivity to Chicago O’Hare, economic growth, and boosted travel options. Complemented by a major terminal expansion, the partnership is poised to transform regional air travel and business opportunities.
— By VisaVerge.com
