News | Port St. Lucie

American Airlines Launches Charlotte Flights From Vero Beach Airport

September 12, 2025
9:02 am

American Airlines is set to begin nonstop service from Vero Beach Regional Airport to Charlotte Douglas International Airport in February, marking a significant expansion in air travel options for the Treasure Coast. The addition of American Airlines as the third passenger carrier at Vero Beach Regional Airport is expected to enhance connectivity and economic growth for the region, especially as the airport continues to attract attention with new developments such as the U.S. Customs facility in Vero Beach set to boost the local economy.

American Airlines Expands Service at Vero Beach Regional Airport

The announcement of American Airlines flights from Vero Beach to Charlotte brings the airport’s total number of passenger airlines to three within a six-month period. This new service is scheduled to begin on February 12 and will operate one daily roundtrip flight using a Bombardier CRJ900 regional jet, which accommodates between 76 and 90 passengers, according to Airport Director Todd Scher.

Tickets for the new Charlotte route are set to go on sale starting September 15. The addition of American Airlines comes shortly after JetBlue announced new flights to New York and Boston, set to begin in December, and Breeze Airways established service at the airport in 2023. Travelers looking forward to JetBlue’s arrival can anticipate the launch of JetBlue flights at Vero Beach Regional Airport in December 2025.

Details of the New Charlotte Route

The new American Airlines route will connect Vero Beach travelers directly to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), which serves as the airline’s second-largest hub. According to American Airlines, Charlotte offers more than 670 daily flights to over 170 destinations in 27 countries, providing extensive national and international connectivity.

American Airlines stated that the Charlotte service is designed to maximize nationwide connections, making it easier for residents and visitors to access destinations across the airline’s global network with just one stop from Vero Beach.

Airport Infrastructure and Community Response

While the arrival of American Airlines is seen as a positive development, Vero Beach city officials are approaching the expansion with caution. Mayor John Cotugno noted that the airport’s infrastructure was not originally designed to support three airlines, and some “growing pains” are anticipated as the airport adapts to increased passenger volume.

Currently, the airport’s terminal facilities offer basic accommodations for passengers, with limited TSA screening, hold-room capacity, and parking. Ongoing renovations aim to address these needs, but officials have indicated that further upgrades may be necessary, such as expanding parking beyond the 500 spaces currently planned.

Economic Impact on Vero Beach and the Treasure Coast

The addition of American Airlines is expected to provide a boost to the local economy. According to the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, the new connection to a major southeastern hub like Charlotte will make Vero Beach more accessible to visitors, business leaders, and potential investors.

Chamber Vice President of Economic Development Mark Litten emphasized that American Airlines’ presence highlights the growth and vitality of the community and will help showcase the Treasure Coast’s attractions to a wider audience. Additionally, the region has seen increased aviation activity, including initiatives such as American Airlines pilot training and new commercial flights at Treasure Coast International Airport.

Other Airlines and Services at Vero Beach Regional Airport

In addition to American Airlines, JetBlue is set to launch flights from Vero Beach to New York and Boston beginning December 11. Breeze Airways has been serving the airport since 2023, offering additional options for travelers in the region.

Airport officials are also considering enhanced ground transportation, such as shuttle service between parking lots and the terminal, to accommodate increased passenger flow.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport: A Major Hub

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a key hub for American Airlines, supporting broad domestic and international connectivity. Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and a major banking center, further increasing the strategic importance of the new route from Vero Beach.

With this new service, Vero Beach residents will have easier access to destinations across the United States and beyond, with seamless connections through Charlotte’s extensive flight network.

Future Outlook for Vero Beach Regional Airport

The rapid growth at Vero Beach Regional Airport underscores the need for continued investment in infrastructure to maintain service quality and accommodate future demand. City and airport officials are monitoring passenger trends and planning for necessary upgrades to ensure a positive travel experience as the airport’s role in the region expands.

Details about further renovations and service enhancements will be provided by airport authorities as plans progress and as the impact of the new airline services becomes clearer.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Airlines Vero Beach Flights

What is the start date for American Airlines flights from Vero Beach to Charlotte?

American Airlines will begin daily nonstop service from Vero Beach Regional Airport to Charlotte Douglas International Airport on February 12, 2025.

How many airlines now serve Vero Beach Regional Airport?

As of February 2025, three airlines serve Vero Beach Regional Airport: American Airlines, JetBlue, and Breeze Airways.

Are there direct flights from Vero Beach to other major cities?

Yes, JetBlue offers direct flights to New York and Boston, while American Airlines will provide direct service to Charlotte. Breeze Airways also operates flights to select destinations.

Can you connect to international destinations from Vero Beach?

Yes, travelers can connect to international destinations by flying from Vero Beach to Charlotte, then transferring to one of American Airlines’ many international flights from its hub.