American Airlines received tentative approval today to begin a round-trip daily flight between San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

The nonstop service between SAT and DCA will provide unparalleled benefits for both cities and their respective regions.

“American would like to thank the city and community of San Antonio, the San Antonio International Airport, U.S. Senator Cruz and the entire Texas delegation for its strong partnership and support of this effort. I’d also like to thank DOT for recognizing the overwhelming value this route will bring to a previously unserved market,” said American’s Executive Vice President Nate Gatten.

“We look forward to DOT issuing a final order so we can begin connecting more members of Military City USA with our nation’s capital and our industry-leading global network.”

“Today marks a significant milestone for San Antonio as we get one step closer to securing a nonstop flight between SAT and DCA,” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg.

“This connectivity between San Antonio and our nation’s capital is long overdue and will benefit our community in many ways. I’m grateful for the unwavering support of our local leaders and the bipartisan backing of our congressional delegation. We are excited about the opportunities this will bring for economic growth, boosting both our business and military communities.”

“We are thrilled with this announcement, SAT to DCA nonstop service via American Airlines will have so many positive impacts to our city and the entire South Texas region,” said Director of Airports for San Antonio Jesus Saenz.

“This is historic and meaningful to San Antonio and our surrounding communities, a true reflection of our partnership with American Airlines along with the countless number of community leaders that have long deserved nonstop service from San Antonio International Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Together with American Airlines, we look forward to sharing more details about the launch of this flight soon.”

“We appreciate the long-time efforts of our community partners, business leaders and our congressional delegation to secure this nonstop flight, which will have a profound impact on San Antonio,” said San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh.

“We are especially grateful to Senators Cornyn and Cruz and Representatives Casar, Castro, Cuellar, Gonzales and Roy for their unrelenting advocacy. We are ready to leverage this opportunity to its fullest and are committed to maximizing the economic benefits for the San Antonio region.”

This flight provides the most convenient access from San Antonio to the nation’s capital and unlocks improved connectivity and enhanced options for travelers. It also builds on the robust service already provided at SAT by American. American plans to start nonstop service to SAT in the coming months.

American’s application included more than 150 letters of support from the San Antonio community backing the nonstop service, including bipartisan members of the Texas Congressional delegation, mayors, military organizations, advocacy groups and chambers of commerce.

To celebrate the inauguration of this route, American will use distinct flight numbers to honor the city’s proud history and the region’s strong ties to the military. Flight 1718 commemorates the year San Antonio was founded, while Flight 1947 reflects the year the U.S. Air Force was established.