Some turbulence is hitting the airline industry this season, as several carriers announce major changes—both challenging and ambitious.
Budget carrier Spirit Airlines continues to face financial headwinds, filing for bankruptcy for the second time, slashing more flights from its schedule, and furloughing an additional 1,000 flight attendants. Caribbean Airlines also trimmed service, cutting two nonstop routes between Fort Lauderdale and Jamaica.
Meanwhile, many other carriers are moving full speed ahead with expansion plans. Delta Air Lines is adding new routes to Malta and Sardinia in 2026, plus a nonstop connection between Austin and Miami this fall. Air Canada is introducing new service both within Canada and across the U.S., while Allegiant and Frontier plan expanded route maps, including 22 new Frontier routes slated for late 2025. Southwest Airlines will add a new California destination in 2026.
Long-haul travelers will have fresh options too: Cathay Pacific will resume flights between Seattle and Hong Kong in spring 2026, and United Airlines will add new fall and winter flights as well.
Airlines aren’t just focused on the skies—ground experiences are getting an upgrade too. Alaska Airlines revealed plans for a sprawling new lounge at San Diego International Airport, expected in 2027, while Plaza Premium will debut two luxury lounges at JFK’s New Terminal One in 2026. Air France is also elevating the passenger experience, after redesigning their Boston lounge—unveiling a complete redesign of its Terminal 2E lounge at Paris–Charles de Gaulle, now spanning three levels and accommodating up to 638 travelers.
On the airport side, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is preparing for its most ambitious expansion yet: a brand-new concourse that will double its capacity by the early 2030s.
