Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Avelo Airlines plans to exit its West Coast operations, including Burbank and Eugene airports, by December 2025.
- The airline is redirecting resources to its expanding East Coast network, citing a competitive market backdrop.
- Passengers booked on West Coast flights should manage their trips through the airline’s website for refunds and alternative options.
- This strategic shift highlights the economic challenges faced by ULCCs in crowded markets.
- Despite the West Coast shutdown, Avelo continues growth in Central Florida and international destinations.
Table of Contents
Avelo Airlines’ Big West Coast Exit
What Does This Mean For Passengers?
Avelo Airlines Announces Major Shift: Exiting West Coast by End of 2025
Avelo Airlines is making headlines with a bold operational pivot—exiting its entire West Coast base by December 2025. This news marks a significant change for the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) that began on the West Coast just over four years ago amid the COVID-19 pandemic[1][2].
What’s Happening?
- Closure of Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) base: The airline will reduce its aircraft at BUR to one on August 12, 2025, before completely shutting down the base by December 2, 2025[1].
- End of service at Eugene Airport: The last flight from Eugene (EUG) is scheduled for December 1, 2025[1].
- Redeployment Eastward: Avelo plans to shift resources, including aircraft, to its growing East Coast network where it sees stronger long-term growth potential[2].
Why Is Avelo Pulling Back?
CEO Andrew Levy cited a “highly competitive backdrop” and inadequate financial returns as key reasons for the retreat. Despite its deep roots at BUR, the airline concluded that continuing West Coast service wouldn’t be viable in the current market environment[1].
Avelo’s West Coast Legacy
Launching operations from BUR in April 2021, Avelo quickly expanded to serve underserved and smaller airports along the West Coast and Intermountain West[2]. It offered affordable nonstop flights, filling a niche often overlooked by larger airlines. However, after 4-plus years, the company is refocusing its strategy.
What Does This Mean For Passengers?
Travelers booked on Avelo’s West Coast flights can manage their trips and receive refunds via the airline’s website[1].
Passengers accustomed to Avelo’s budget options on the West Coast will need to look for alternative airlines, such as Alaska Airlines, which is simultaneously expanding California and Pacific Northwest connections[2].
Strategic Implications
Avelo’s move reflects the economic realities for ULCCs operating in crowded, competitive markets. Redeploying assets to the East Coast may give Avelo a stronger foothold where demand and growth opportunities are more favorable[1][4].
What’s Next for Avelo?
While the West Coast exit is a setback, Avelo is bolstering its Central Florida service through mid-February 2026 and expanding its presence in more profitable regions[3]. The airline has flown over 7.4 million customers across 53 cities since its launch, including international destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico, signaling a broad but focused growth strategy[4].
FAQ
Will Avelo continue to operate on the West Coast?
No, Avelo plans to exit all West Coast operations, including Burbank and Eugene airports, by the end of 2025[4].
What should affected passengers do?
Passengers should manage their bookings via the airline’s website for refunds and alternative options[1].
Are there alternative airlines flying on these routes?
Yes, Alaska Airlines is expanding California and Pacific Northwest routes and can serve as an alternative for affected passengers[2].
Sources
- Avelo Airlines cites competitive market as it plans to exit Burbank & Eugene by end of 2025
- Avelo Airlines To Retreat From West Coast By End Of 2025 In
- Newsroom – Avelo Airlines
- City News Blog: Avelo Airlines Extends its Central Florida Flight Schedule Through Mid-February 2026
- Avelo Airlines to End All West Coast Flights by End of 2025 – LA Magazine