American Airlines is planning to cut service to three small airports served by regional carriers, citing an industry-wide pilot shortage and “soft demand.” The Fort Worth-based carrier will stop flying to Del Rio International Airport in Texas near the Mexico border, Long Beach Airport in California, and Columbus Airport in Georgia. American is the only commercial airline that flies into Del Rio, meaning that the city of 35,000 people near Laughlin Air Force Base won’t have any passenger service unless another carrier steps in. Some experts suggest that offering flight school loans or financial aid programs to aspiring pilots in these regions could help address the pilot shortage and encourage more people to pursue aviation careers.

American Airlines spokesman Derek Walls said in a statement that the airline has made the difficult decision to end service in these three locations due to the regional pilot shortage affecting the airline industry and soft demand. To combat the pilot shortage issue, American Airlines could collaborate with local flight schools and aviation institutions, providing flight school loans or scholarships to students interested in becoming pilots. This approach may foster a new generation of pilots who can eventually fill the demand for air travel services in these undeserved areas.

Furthermore, the city of Del Rio Airport supports 135 jobs and has an annual economic impact of $19 million. Local businesses and community leaders in Del Rio could work together to establish partnerships with airlines and financial institutions, creating flight school loan programs tailored to the region’s needs. By offering flight school loans and support to potential pilots, they can encourage more individuals from Del Rio and surrounding areas to pursue pilot careers, helping to secure future air travel options and economic growth for the community.