Sonoma County Airport Expects Record Spring After January Dip

Officials say Alaska and American Airlines saw huge growth last month, offsetting loss of Avelo Airlines.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 12:51am

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While passenger numbers at the Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport saw a typical early-year dip this January, officials say the airport is on track for a record-breaking spring. Alaska and American Airlines both posted huge growth last month, helping to offset the loss of Avelo Airlines and setting the stage for a projected 30% surge in traffic next quarter.

Why it matters

The addition of Southwest Airlines' new nonstop routes from Sonoma County Airport to popular destinations like Burbank, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Denver is a major milestone that is expected to drive significant passenger growth in the coming months.

The details

Contractors are already on-site prepping the terminal for Southwest's arrival on April 7th, which will also include a newly announced seasonal route to Austin starting this October. The airport is hoping the new Southwest service, combined with continued growth from existing carriers, will lead to a 30% jump in passenger traffic in the second quarter of 2026.

  • In January 2026, the airport saw a typical early-year dip in passenger numbers.
  • On April 7, 2026, Southwest Airlines will begin nonstop flights from Sonoma County Airport to Burbank, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Denver.
  • In October 2026, Sonoma County Airport will launch a new seasonal route to Austin.

The players

Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport

A regional airport serving Sonoma County, California, located just north of Santa Rosa.

Alaska Airlines

A major U.S. airline that operates flights to and from Sonoma County Airport.

American Airlines

A major U.S. airline that operates flights to and from Sonoma County Airport.

Avelo Airlines

A low-cost U.S. airline that previously operated flights from Sonoma County Airport but has since discontinued service.

Southwest Airlines

A major U.S. airline that will begin offering nonstop flights from Sonoma County Airport to several destinations starting in April 2026.

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What’s next

Contractors are already on-site prepping the terminal for Southwest's arrival on April 7th, which will also include a newly announced seasonal route to Austin starting this October.

The takeaway

The addition of Southwest Airlines' new nonstop routes from Sonoma County Airport is a major milestone that is expected to drive significant passenger growth in the coming months, building on the recent success of existing carriers like Alaska and American Airlines.