Naples Airport board agrees to continue discussions on possible American Airlines commercial flights

NAPLES, Fla. —

The possibility of commercial passenger flights returning to Naples Airport drew strong reactions during a Naples Airport Authority board meeting on Thursday.

Board members agreed to continue discussions with American Airlines after hearing from a representative.

American Airlines wants to begin daily service between Naples and Charlotte, North Carolina, starting in December 2026.

According to the proposal, the airline would operate three daily arrivals and three daily departures using 65-seat CRJ-700 regional jets through PSA Airlines.

The aircraft would meet existing airport weight limits and Stage 4 noise standards. The flights would also adhere to the airport’s voluntary curfew hours.

American Airlines representatives told the board the airline believes there is demand for a more convenient option for Naples travelers instead of flying through Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers.

“We believe that there is unmet demand by the residents of Naples and also the visitors to Naples, who would prefer to use a direct airport, a closer airport right here in the community,” said Jordan Pack with American Airlines network planning.

Supporters say the flights could make travel easier for seasonal residents and connect Naples travelers to one of American Airlines’ largest hubs in Charlotte.

But many residents living near the airport spoke against the proposal during Thursday’s meeting, saying they are already frustrated with aircraft noise and growing air traffic over their neighborhoods.

“Once one major carrier enters, others follow,” said Mary Tatigian with Quiet Florida during public comment. “At that point, this airport no longer functions as a municipal airport serving a local community. It becomes a regional commercial hub.”

Naples resident Martin Horneck also raised concerns about congestion and noise near the airport.

“Our season actually led to the fact that we had a plane every minute,” Horneck said. “One plane was still making noise while the other was already making noise again.”

Airport staff also said that if the proposal moves forward, the terminal would need modifications, including a full Transportation Security Administration security checkpoint for commercial passengers.

Board members discussed creating a community survey to gather public input before future decisions are made, but airport leaders said the Naples Airport Authority must still conduct its due diligence and consider American Airlines’ proposal in good faith.

The Naples Airport Authority is expected to revisit the proposal during next month’s meeting.

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