15 Key Airlines That Powered American Eagle (Past and Present)

American Eagle is not a single airline. It’s an American Airlines brand powered by a web of regional carriers. Including legacy partners and modern operators, these 15 regional airlines have kept the brand’s smaller routes flying strong, helping daily passengers with reliable flights.

Metroflight Airlines

Metroflight Airlines holds a special place in American Eagle’s history, launching the brand’s very first flight in 1984. A division of Metro Airlines, it played a vital role in establishing early regional routes. By 1993, Metroflight had completed its service, but its legacy remains as the airline that started it all.

Air Midwest

Air Midwest is another early contributor that shaped the brand. In 1985, Air Midwest took off under the American Eagle banner, connecting smaller cities to larger hubs. But in just two years, changes loomed as it sold key assets to American Airlines. Later, in 1991, Mesa Air Group bought Air Midwest.

Executive Airlines

Executive Airlines connected Caribbean destinations until 2013 for American Eagle. Its departure led to a shift in American Airlines’ regional operations and changed the way short-haul flights were managed in the area.

Air Wisconsin

Under this network, Air Wisconsin connected smaller communities to American Airlines’ network. It offered frequent travelers dependable access to major hubs. In 2025, Air Wisconsin ended its American Eagle partnership, concluding its role as a key regional carrier.

Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines established a codeshare agreement with American Airlines for smoother regional connectivity. However, financial struggles, worsened by hurricane-related disruptions, led to its Chapter 11 bankruptcy. After restructuring, it was acquired by Silver Airways in 2018.

Mesa Airlines

Known for handling tough regional routes, Mesa played a vital role before transitioning to operate exclusively for United Airlines in 2023. Mesa Airlines was a key player in American Eagle’s regional network, which balanced low costs with strong punctuality.

Nashville Eagle

Nashville Eagle operated under the American Eagle brand before merging with Command Airways in 1991 to form Flagship Airlines. It later became part of American Eagle Airlines in 1998, ultimately evolving into Envoy Air, which still operates today.

Trans States Airlines

When it was active, Trans States Airlines expanded American Eagle’s reach by consistently serving less accessible cities. Industry challenges led to its closure in 2020, ending the chapter of an airline recognized for its consistent service to underserved routes.

Chautauqua Airlines

Chautauqua Airlines mastered adaptability by shifting aircraft and contracts to meet evolving demands. Before halting its regional connectivity operations in 2014, Chautauqua Airlines played its part by setting a precedent for flexible and efficient airline partnerships.

Compass Airlines

Compass Airlines used to operate under the American Eagle brand in 2015. It provided efficient regional connections, contributed to workforce development, and streamlined operations. However, the airline ended its operations in 2020 due to industry challenges.

Envoy Air

Coming to the airlines that support the network today, starting as American Eagle Airlines in 1984, Envoy Air became an important force in regional aviation. After rebranding in 2014, it solidified its position as a cornerstone of American Airlines’ operations.

Piedmont Airlines

Piedmont Airlines strategically operates only Embraer 145 regional jets. This airline reduces maintenance, training, and spare part costs for the brand. Such uniformity minimizes downtime and allows American Eagle passengers to face much fewer delays.

SkyWest Airlines

SkyWest Airlines operates for multiple major airlines, including the American Eagle, and it covers over 240 cities. A broad network like this gives passengers seamless connectivity and more travel options than a single regional carrier could provide.

Republic Airways

What makes a regional airline successful? For Republic Airways, the answer lies in its strong leadership under Republic Airways Holdings. It specializes in short-haul flights, and beyond partnering with American Eagle, it helps many other major airlines maintain smooth, on-time operations.

PSA Airlines

PSA Airlines strategically operates from major hubs, such as Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., to bridge smaller markets with American Airlines’ expansive network. This hub-and-spoke system optimizes efficiency while offering affordability.