15 U.S. Flight Routes With Discontinued Or No Direct Service

You’ve got your sights set on a destination, but surprise! There’s no direct flight. Some U.S. routes never existed, while others were quietly taken off the radar. Here are 15 connections that didn’t make it – or won’t be making a comeback anytime soon. Curious? Let’s take a look at some of the most elusive flights you won’t be taking

Milwaukee, WI – Los Angeles, CA

Once a promising connection, the Milwaukee-to-Los Angeles route saw regular service from airlines like Spirit and Southwest. Over time, declining demand and competitive pressures led to its discontinuation. Travelers must now opt for connecting flights, which makes what was once a simple journey more time-consuming.

Milwaukee, WI – San Francisco, CA

A thriving economy in Milwaukee should, in theory, justify direct flights to San Francisco. However, as airlines cut non-essential routes, this service was axed. It has now caused business travelers to face layovers and has led to longer travel times with decreased convenience between these two major cities.

Hartford, CT – San Francisco, CA

The lack of direct flights between Hartford and San Francisco is frustrating for travelers. Long layovers add hours to their journey.  A possible solution could be for airlines like JetBlue or United to reinstate their non-stop service. This would cater to professionals and tourists alike who need an efficient travel option.

Los Angeles, CA – Savannah, GA

The flight route between Los Angeles and Savannah remains largely ignored, unlike Los Angeles to Atlanta, a heavily trafficked route. Both destinations are major cities, but Savannah lacks the business hubs that drive demand. Airlines hesitate to offer direct service without strong passenger numbers. Connecting flights are the only option.

Raleigh-Durham, NC – San Diego, CA

Some people say that Raleigh-Durham to San Diego should have a direct flight. Both cities are booming economic centers. However, airlines disagree and prioritize more frequented and profitable routes. Arguments for direct service remain unconvincing to the decision-makers in the aviation industry due to a lack of sustained demand.

Hartford, CT – Las Vegas, NV

Hartford’s direct connection to Las Vegas was discontinued despite air travel between the East and West Coasts being typically well-served. Once available, the route now forces travelers into layovers and impacts those who seek a comfortable way of commuting from the capital of Connecticut to the sin city.

Boston, MA – San Antonio, TX

Boston to San Antonio lacks direct flights, leading to several inconveniences like longer travel times and higher costs. Layovers increase journey duration, and more connections often mean pricier tickets. It can cut into productivity for business travelers who lose valuable hours without a non-stop option.

Cleveland, OH – San Diego, CA

The idea of flying from Cleveland to San Diego without stopping used to be a reality. However, when airlines cut the less-traveled routes, direct service on these routes disappeared. Travelers find themselves stuck at airports between flights and have to circle back to the same frustration of multiple stops.

Los Angeles, CA – Norfolk, VA

Norfolk travelers heading to Los Angeles come across a frustrating problem of switching flights mid-journey. A direct flight could cut hours from their trip and increase efficiency for all kinds of travelers. If airlines reintroduced this service, they could capitalize on existing demand and improve passenger convenience.

San Antonio, TX – Sacramento, CA

Despite being major state capitals, both San Antonio and Sacramento lack a direct air link. Passengers face long layovers in cities like Phoenix or Denver. With California and Texas being two of the largest economies in the U.S., this route should ideally be a thriving commute.

Orange County, CA – Orlando, FL

This route combines both leisure and business travel yet remains unserved. A quick flight could unite Disneyland and Disney World and offer business professionals a direct route between the two booming economies. Airlines still overlook the opportunity to capitalize on this route with a direct flight.

Charleston, SC – San Francisco, CA

Despite being two major coastal cities, no direct flight exists between Charleston and San Francisco. Charleston thrives as a tourist hotspot, while San Francisco remains a tech hub. Passenger volume hasn’t reached the threshold airlines seek. Until direct flights start on this route, travelers must endure time-consuming connections through major hubs.

Portland, OR – Tampa, FL

West Coast to East Coast travel is already a long journey, and stopping at multiple airports during the journey makes it even worse. Unnecessary stops add frustration for those flying between Portland and Tampa. Passengers can enjoy a more efficient trip if airlines recognize the need for a direct flight. 

Columbus, OH – San Diego, CA

Traveling from Columbus to San Diego should be straightforward. Both cities have busy airports and a steady flow of travelers. However, travelers face disappointment when they realize there isn’t a direct flight. Instead, they must bear layovers. Airlines have an opportunity to serve an unmet demand with a non-stop flight.

Philadelphia, PA – Sacramento, CA

Philadelphia to Los Angeles is a well-served route with multiple daily flights. Despite being just a short distance north of L.A., Sacramento doesn’t enjoy the same connectivity. Both California cities attract travelers from the East Coast, but only L.A. gets a direct service and leaves Sacramento passengers at a disadvantage.