Southwest to Launch Tucson's First Nonstop Baltimore Service

Southwest to Launch Tucson's First Nonstop Baltimore Service

      Tucson, Ariz. (Dec. 7, 2011)-Southwest Airlines announced today it will begin seasonal service between Tucson International Airport (TIA) and Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport February 12. Daily flights will be available through April 9. 

      This is the first nonstop service to Baltimore in TIA history. It provides entry to the Washington, D.C. metro area and puts Tucson travelers one quick stop away from other eastern cities including Long Island, N.Y., Providence, R.I. and Manchester, N.H.

      "This new, wintertime nonstop option between Southern Arizona and our largest airport operation in the Northeast gives our Tucson customers many more options for one-stop and connecting service through Baltimore/Washington. It also underscores our ability and commitment to use our planes and people to provide service we expect will successfully fill the needs of travelers," said Southwest spokesperson Brad Hawkins.

      "Nonstop, East Coast service, particularly to the D.C. area, is a top priority for Tucson's business and convention stakeholders, as well as our visitors. We thank Southwest for stepping up to meet the demand," said Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) President/CEO Bonnie Allin.

      "TAA works closely with airlines to establish successful routes, and the community plays a very important role in that effort. Every ticket bought for this flight will demonstrate that Tucson can support this East Coast service. Filling the seats is the key to retaining the new service and influencing Southwest and other airlines to put more nonstops to and from Tucson on their schedules."

      The route's timing is ideal for bringing East Coast visitors to town for peak visitor season and popular events such as Tucson Gem and Mineral Show and Accenture Match Play. Tickets are available now, and the schedule is as follows.            

      Southwest Airlines is TIA's largest carrier, accounting for 34 percent of its traffic. Southwest offers nonstop service from Tucson to Albuquerque, N.M., Chicago Midway, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Diego.

      Tucson previously had seasonal service to Dulles International Airport in the Washington, D.C. metro area from United Airlines.

-end-

About TIA

Tucson International Airport (TIA) serves the community with commercial, military, cargo and general aviation operations that support 17,000 jobs, enhance the region's business climate and improve quality of life for Southern Arizonans. TIA began as the nation's first commercial airport and has continually evolved to meet its users' needs for safety, efficiency and service. No local tax dollars are used in the airport's operation and maintenance.