Avelo Airlines Advances West Coast Exit to October Amid Challenges

Post by : Meena Rani

US-based low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines has accelerated its exit from the West Coast, now departing Hollywood Burbank Airport on 20 October, nearly six weeks earlier than initially planned. The airline had previously announced a full withdrawal from Burbank on 2 December, following a July statement to close its West Coast base.

“Aircraft needs elsewhere and a lack of demand during the final month” were cited as key reasons for the revised schedule, according to a report by KTLA.

Early Years and Rapid Growth

Founded in 2021, Avelo was hailed as the first new US airline launch in 15 years. The carrier began operations with three used Boeing 737-800 aircraft, aiming to provide convenience, choice, and competition by serving underserved communities.

Avelo’s approach often involves flying into smaller, more convenient airports, avoiding congestion at major hubs and promising a smoother passenger experience.

Since its launch, the airline has expanded its fleet to 22 Boeing 737NG aircraft and grown its network to 53 cities across 21 US states, as well as international destinations like Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. By September 2025, Avelo had transported nearly eight million passengers on over 62,000 flights.

Retreat from Burbank: Causes and Implications

By mid-July, Avelo announced it would scale down operations at Burbank, reducing its three-aircraft base to one, before eventually leaving entirely. Burbank had served as the airline’s West Coast hub, connecting passengers to destinations in Northern California, Oregon, and Montana.

Industry observers link the retreat to financial pressures and consumer backlash, particularly following controversy over government contracts with ICE to operate deportation flights beginning in May 2025. Avelo faced local opposition in Connecticut, where 19,000 petition signatures called for the airline to drop these flights.

With the remaining Burbank aircraft redeployed to the East Coast, the airline is clearly shifting operational priorities.

Contrasting Growth Plans and Market Exit

Avelo’s West Coast pullback comes amid strong growth initiatives. On 8 September, the airline announced a new round of significant growth capital, emphasizing confidence in its differentiated business model and ability to provide affordable travel to underserved markets.

Simultaneously, Avelo confirmed a historic order for 50 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 50 planes, valued at $4.4 billion. Deliveries are expected to start in early 2027, marking the first US operation of Embraer’s largest commercial aircraft. The order is designed to unlock new markets and optimize network capacity, according to Embraer executives.

Who Will Fill the West Coast Gap?

Avelo’s departure from Burbank and smaller West Coast airports opens opportunities for other carriers. Breeze Airways, another low-cost US airline, plans to take over many of these routes as part of its West Coast expansion, starting in March 2026.

As Avelo focuses on the East Coast and long-term fleet transformation, the airline faces challenges in managing brand perception, political scrutiny, and service gaps left by the accelerated exit from Burbank.

Avelo Airlines, Burbank Airport, West Coast exit, low-cost carrier