New Winter Getaway Routes Announced
Typically, the record-setting temperatures do rise over the mercury across the USA, but some passengers might be looking forward to a coming winter getaway. However, the fortune part is for ski and cold weather enthusiasts—American Airlines recently started launching new routes flights to some popular ski destinations all over the country. It’s the same for the winter getaway in the Southwest.
Expansion to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Meanwhile, the carrier is also planning to launch a new seasonal service to Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Sun Valley, Idaho, from both Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) between December 18, 2025 and April 6, 2026. The Idahoan mountain town has long been a favorite ski destination and is home to the historic Sun Valley Inn and Sun Valley Lodge.
In fact, the expansion plan of American Airlines showed its presence at Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) in New Mexico with new direct flights from both Chicago and Los Angeles. Though Santa Fe is perhaps best known for its artsy atmosphere, it’s just 16 miles from Ski Santa Fe, which has about 660 acres of skiable terrain.
“American will offer more than 70 daily flights this winter to top spots where travelers can head down the slopes on a bluebird day before rounding out the evening with hot cocoa around the fireplace,” American Airlines said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure.
Year-Round Service to Santa Maria, California
Additionally, Sun Valley and Santa Fe-American will begin two daily or year-round services between Santa Maria Airport (SMX) in Santa Maria, California, and Phoenix. Santa Maria –all located on California’s Central Coast, about 158 miles (or a three-hour drive) northwest of Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, flying into the air makes it—is easy to see the natural beauty of the Central Coast as well as nearby destinations Sau Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, or even Carmel-by-the-Sea. The carrier even shared that travelers begin buying tickers for these new routes—that are almost in the queue to start on June 30, 2025—online or via a travel agent.
New Charlotte to Aspen Flights
Earlier this year—American Airlines also announced the beginning of a new service between Charlotte Douglas International Airport—CLT and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport—ASE. The newest flights will be started over these operations later this year from December 19, 2025. However, Aspen, being the hub of exotic resorts and hotels, is much loved and known as a ski town.
