Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
McAllen, TX — In a significant development for regional connectivity, McAllen International Airport has announced a new partnership with Delta Airlines, introducing a daily nonstop service to Austin, Texas. This inaugural flight marks a major milestone in the airport’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience and fostering economic growth within the Rio Grande Valley.
During the launch event, Jeremy Santoscoy, P. E., the Director of Aviation at McAllen International Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the new service. “McAllen International Airport goes above and beyond to connect our city with the people and places that make a difference in their lives,” Santoscoy stated. He highlighted the importance of this new connection to Austin, emphasizing its role in bringing communities closer and supporting the city’s economic development.
McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos also spoke at the event, emphasizing the community’s anticipation and support for the new route. “We’re talking about direct flights to Austin. How overdue is this?” Villalobos said, reflecting the community’s excitement. He thanked the local administration, advisory board, and Delta Airlines for making the service a reality. Mayor Villalobos invited the entire Rio Grande Valley to celebrate this achievement, stressing that McAllen thinks regionally and acts as a hub for the whole area.
City Manager Roy Rodriguez praised the airport’s efforts in maintaining high standards and contributing to the Valley’s status as a prominent economic hub. “McAllen International Airport is a crucial link in our city’s economic development future,” Rodriguez remarked, appreciating the airport’s role in connecting the Rio Grande Valley with Texas’s government and business centers.
This new Delta Airlines route is expected to provide significant benefits, including better access to state governmental and business opportunities, facilitating local businesses’ seeking of outside investment, and recruiting new talent. McAllen International Airport, already among Texas’s ten busiest commercial airports, is set to enhance its position further through strategic partnerships and expanded service offerings.
Community leaders and stakeholders see this new service as a game-changing development for the area. It promises to boost economic activities and improve the quality of life for residents throughout the Rio Grande Valley. As flights commence, the community looks forward to reaping the benefits of increased connectivity and the continued success of McAllen International Airport.
Delta Airlines marked its return to McAllen International Airport by launching this new nonstop service to Austin, Texas, as part of its bigger expansion strategy. Kanye Harris, Delta’s Regional Sales Manager, addressed a gathered crowd at the airport, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome and the enduring partnership with McAllen.
Harris emphasized the alignment of McAllen’s and Delta’s commitment to exceeding expectations in service and connectivity. “You guys say above and beyond, and the hospitality you have shown us has been precisely above and beyond,” Harris noted, acknowledging the local leadership’s role in facilitating Delta’s return after a 12-year pause.
The new route to Austin is just the beginning of Delta’s ambitious plans for Texas. Harris revealed that the airline has experienced a 12% growth across the state, attributing this success to its deepened connections within local communities. Austin, known for its vibrant entertainment, culture, and arts scene, will now be directly accessible from McAllen. It offers a gateway to nearly 50 peak-day nonstop flights to 14 U.S. airports, including Delta’s hubs, Las Vegas and Orlando.
Further expanding its international reach, Delta will also provide nonstop services to Mexico City and Amsterdam, with a new route to Calgary set to launch on April 28th. This expansion is supported by a joint venture with Aeromexico, which recently introduced service to the latest San Felipe Airport in Santa Lucia, Mexico City.
“Whether you’re planning a domestic getaway or an international adventure, Delta has you covered,” Harris stated, outlining the airline’s comprehensive service offerings. The Austin service expansion includes new routes to Midland-Odessa and Nashville, with additional flights to Cincinnati and Raleigh-Durham.
Delta’s commitment extends beyond destinations; it connects people and fosters relationships. “From families reuniting to business professionals forging new partnerships, every journey tells a story, and we are excited to be a part of yours,” Harris expressed, highlighting the human element of Delta’s service.
As the event concluded, Harris thanked Jeremy Santoscoy, McAllen International Airport’s Director of Aviation, and his team for their collaboration and hospitality. “Thank you again for joining us today, and we hope to see you all on a Delta flight very soon,” Harris concluded, signaling a robust future for Delta Airlines in McAllen and beyond.
