Avelo Airlines Maintains Winter Schedule Amid Federal Flight Reductions
Avelo Airlines is continuing its existing flight schedule from Wilmington (ILG) through April, despite federal directives to reduce service at 40 major airports by 10% due to the government shutdown. Wilmington has become one of Avelo's strongest markets.
Impact of Federal Flight Cut Orders
Although Avelo mainly operates from smaller airports like Wilmington, it will have to reduce flights to major destinations such as Orlando. This is significant, as Avelo has built a strong niche with its ILG-Orlando route.
Avelo announced via social media that it will maintain its flight schedule for now, attributing this to its focus on flying from smaller cities.
Regulators have instructed major airlines not to limit flight reductions to affiliated regional carriers serving smaller cities, alleviating fears that small regional jet cities like Salisbury, MD, would face severe cuts.
Operational Changes at Wilmington Airport
Avelo will operate three Boeing 737 jets out of Delaware Airport, increasing its presence as it exits West Coast markets earlier than expected. Previously, in 2025, Avelo kept two jets at Delaware.
- The addition of a third jet will reduce twice-weekly ILG flights.
- Winter flights from Wilmington to San Juan, Puerto Rico, will rise from two to three or more per week.
Market Timing and Future Outlook
The federal order comes at a traditionally slow period for airlines, but a prolonged government shutdown through Thanksgiving could change plans considerably.
It was feared that regional jet cities, such as Salisbury, MD, would be hit hard by the cuts.
Avelo’s approach of focusing on smaller airport markets helps it maintain stability amid federal cutbacks affecting larger hubs.
Author's Summary
Avelo Airlines leverages its strategy of serving smaller airports to sustain flight operations despite federal mandates reducing service at major airports during the government shutdown.