American Airlines abandons destinations in Mexico and Qatar
American has axed three routes, leaving some travelers facing longer journeys and fewer nonstop options - but there are ways to avoid getting caught out.
TL;DR
- American Airlines has discontinued service to Santa Maria (California), Tijuana (Mexico), and Doha (Qatar).
- The route cuts are attributed to weak performance, fleet adjustments, and changing passenger demand.
- Santa Maria has lost its only major US legacy airline service, and Tijuana no longer has a nonstop route operated by a US carrier.
- The Philadelphia-Doha route, one of the longest American offered, was discontinued but has been resumed by Qatar Airways.
- Airlines consider factors beyond seat sales, such as operating costs, connecting passengers, premium bookings, and cargo revenue, when evaluating routes.
- American is simultaneously investing in new routes, including flights to Porto, Vienna, Reykjavik, Tokyo Narita, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Nice, and an additional flight to London Heathrow.
- These network changes mean fewer convenient options in some markets, potentially leading to longer travel times, increased costs, and more connections for passengers.
- Passengers affected by cancellations should carefully review alternative flights, consider partner airlines, and understand their refund rights.
- American's partnership with Qatar Airways allows passengers to still book flights between Philadelphia and Doha, potentially earning miles and loyalty points.