American Airlines Group Inc. announced a 75 percent cut in long-haul international flights from the U.S. Passenger traffic has plunged due to the coronavirus pandemic and government restrictions.
American operates a gateway to Europe from Philadelphia International Airport as well as a domestic hub. The airline employed 8,700 as of 2018 in Philadephia. While figures are not available, the headcount is believed to include hundreds of Delaware residents.
American had previously expanded international routes from Philadelphia, Charlotte and other cities.
The suspension will last through May 6. This change is in response to decreased demand and changes to U.S. government travel restrictions due to coronavirus (COVID-19). The airline will:
- Reduce international capacity by 75 percent year over year — from March 16 to May 6
- Continue short-haul international flying, which includes flights to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America and certain markets in the northern part of South America, as scheduled
In addition to the international changes, the airline anticipates its domestic capacity in April will be reduced by 20 percent compared to last year and May’s domestic capacity will be reduced by 30 percent on a year over year basis.
Flights from Dublin and Manchester from Philadelphia and other gateways are being suspended beginning this week.
Major cuts are being made on international fights from Miami and JFK airport in New York City.
