American Airlines adds routes at LaGuardia, discontinues others

A spokesperson characterized the modifications as "reoptimizing" the airline's slot portfolio at LaGuardia to enhance service for local travelers. Steve Johnson, the carrier's chief strategy officer, noted, "LaGuardia will be the largest, I think, operation that we've had in history."

American's new flights are expected to increase its competitiveness, especially on routes to Atlanta and Fort Lauderdale, key destinations for local travelers according to U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics data. Both cities are already served by multiple airlines operating out of LaGuardia, including Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, and Spirit Airlines.

American Airlines had previously reduced its presence in New York as part of an alliance with JetBlue, which ended in 2023. Talks of potentially renewing this alliance have ceased, leading to legal action from American against JetBlue for at least $1 million.

American's new route plans from LaGuardia this winter include six daily flights to Atlanta starting September 3, along with increased frequencies to several other destinations.