Austin to Launch New Nonstop Flights in 2026

Travelers flying out of Austin in 2026 will have an expanded range of nonstop destinations, enhancing their travel experience. The new flights are expected to cater to vacation hotspots, marking a shift in focus from previous options. This expansion is anticipated to increase the number of available airline seats by nearly 9% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.

Austin’s Growing Airport Capacity

The increase in nonstop flights is largely driven by Southwest Airlines, the primary airline at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA). This summer, Southwest is preparing for a record number of flights, with daily departures projected to rise from 109 in January to an unprecedented 132 by mid-year. The airline is launching a new crew base at ABIA in March, which aims to enhance operational efficiency and service reliability.

Key Developments at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

• An 80,000 square foot expansion at the west end of the Barbara Jordan Terminal will debut in spring 2026, featuring three new gates and updated amenities.
• Checkpoint 3 will reopen in early 2026 after renovations, increasing TSA screening capacity.
• The airport is also modernizing its baggage handling system, now capable of processing over 4,000 bags per hour.

The expansion efforts come amid the ongoing demolition of the South Terminal, which had been home to low-cost airlines like Allegiant and Frontier. This project aims to construct additional taxiways and a new concourse with at least 20 gates, slated to open in the early 2030s.

New Nonstop Destinations for 2026

With the upcoming flight schedule, Southwest Airlines will offer many new nonstop destinations:

• Hayden/Steamboat Springs, Colorado: Saturday-only service from March 7 to April 6.
• Fort Myers, Florida: Saturday-only service from March 7 to April 6.
• Palm Springs, California: Seasonal service with weekend flights starting March 7.
• Pensacola, Florida: Daily flights, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays from March 7 to April 6.
• Cincinnati: New daily service from June 4 to August 3.
• Seattle: Seasonal service returning June 4 to August 3.

Delta Airlines is also expanding its service at ABIA, making it the airport’s second-largest carrier. New nonstop routes will include:

• Columbus, Ohio: Starting June 7.
• Kansas City, Missouri: Starting June 7.
• Bozeman, Montana: Saturday-only service from June 13 to September 5.
• San José del Cabo, Mexico: Extended service through April 12.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the positive developments, the airport will face a significant challenge due to a persistent shortage of air traffic controllers. This shortage has resulted in increased ground delays, which could impact travelers despite the growth in flights for 2026.

Additionally, airlines such as Allegiant and Frontier will be relocating to the Barbara Jordan Terminal in early 2026, facing increased operational costs that may be passed on to customers.

Conclusion

Austin residents and visitors can look forward to an exciting year of travel in 2026. With enhanced nonstop flight options and airport upgrades, the region is set to facilitate smoother travel experiences. However, ongoing staffing challenges in air traffic control might pose obstacles that travelers should be aware of as they plan their journeys.