American Airlines has increased capacity at Erie International Airport (ERI), marking a continued vote of confidence in the Erie market.
American has placed a Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft on the midday Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) flight. The CRJ900, a regional jet designed for short- to medium-haul routes, offers 60 coach seats and 12 first-class seats. This change brings a 15% annual seat availability capacity increase for travelers going between CLT and ERI. Tickets are now available for purchase.
The Chamber emphasized that this announcement reflects both American’s confidence in Erie and the community’s ongoing efforts to strengthen local air service.
“This is exactly what the community has been asking for – more options and more convenience,” said Brandon Mendoza, President and CEO of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. “While this particular service enhancement is a direct investment from American Airlines, it reflects the momentum we’ve been building together as a community to strengthen air service and expand access to Erie.”
In recent years, the Chamber has supported efforts to grow air service at ERI through initiatives such as the Fly Erie Fund, a public-private partnership launched in 2023. While not directly tied to this service change, the fund has helped demonstrate regional demand and encourage continued airline investment.
“American’s decision to increase capacity is a strong indicator that Erie is a market worth serving,” said Jake Rouch, Vice President of Economic Development at the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. “Our role has been to show airlines that Erie travelers are ready to fill seats, and these results confirm that message is being heard. Each new investment like this adds to Erie’s connectivity and competitiveness.”
This latest investment by American Airlines highlights the momentum building at Erie International Airport. The Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership is encouraged by the growth in capacity and remains committed to working through the Fly Erie Fund to expand air service options, strengthen regional connectivity, and support Erie’s long-term economic vitality.
