American Airlines has made a temporary change to its flight operations between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and John Wayne Airport (SNA). The airline replaced the Airbus A321neo with the Boeing 737 MAX 8 on this route, starting June 5. This marks the first time the 737 MAX 8 has been used for flights between these two destinations.
The decision to switch aircraft is not new for American Airlines on this route, which was launched in June 2023. Last fall, the airline changed the eastbound operation from redeye to daytime flights. According to Cirium, an aviation data firm, the 737 MAX 8 will operate exclusively on this route until October 5.
The reasons behind removing the A321neo are unclear as representatives from American Airlines were unavailable for comment. However, it is suggested that the move could be strategic due to high demand elsewhere during the busy summer travel season.