You could have some new long-distance travel options if you fly out of Reagan National Airport. The federal Department of Transportation tentatively approved five airlines for nonstop options out of Arlington.
The flights would go to Las Vegas, San Antonio, San Francisco, San Diego, and Seattle.
It would be the first time you would be able to get a round-trip to San Diego and San Antonio from DCA.
Eight airlines applied for the long-haul flights, but the department only awarded flights to five.
Alaska Airlines would offer daily service to San Diego, while American Airlines would have daily service to San Antonio.
United Airlines got the tentative go-ahead to offer service to San Francisco International Airport. Alaska Airlines has a once-a-day flight there.
Delta Air Lines would join Alaska Airlines as the next carrier at Reagan National to offer nonstop service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
And Southwest Airlines would fly from Virginia to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
The flights could begin within 90 days. The transportation department is taking public comments until October 30 before giving its final approval.
Earlier this year, the Federal Aviation Administration warned against adding long-distance flights out of DCA. The FAA analysis of the Reagan National Airport’s operations found it to be near peak capacity, with 20 percent of departures and 22 percent of arrivals already experiencing delays.
Feature image by Steve/adobe.stock.com
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