US’s CommuteAir Eyes Own Flights as United Deal Extends

CommuteAir is exploring the launch of its own scheduled passenger services, targeting underserved second- and third-tier U.S. cities that have lost air connectivity due to industry consolidation. CEO Rick Hoefling told Cleveland.com that the airline sees strong demand in these markets and believes there’s opportunity to fill the gap.

“The demand isn’t going away,” Hoefling said. While he did not name specific routes, he indicated that Cleveland Hopkins, where the airline is headquartered, could become a key focus city for the potential new network. Despite its Ohio roots, CommuteAir currently does not base aircraft at Cleveland Hopkins.

When asked by ch-aviation, Hoefling said there were no firm plans to disclose at this time.

Currently, CommuteAir operates almost exclusively under a capacity purchase agreement (CPA) with United Airlines, which holds a 40% ownership stake in the airline. At the end of Q1 2025, CommuteAir operated 59 Embraer E145 aircraft for United Express, primarily from hubs at Washington Dulles and Houston Intercontinental.

According to the ch-aviation fleets module, CommuteAir has 74 E145s in total, including inactive units, all of which are owned by United Airlines. Hoefling confirmed that the CPA with United was recently extended through 2028, and CommuteAir remains the airline’s sole E145 operator.

In addition to its United Express operations, CommuteAir owns one Embraer E170 used for charter services. The airline had previously planned to expand its E170 charter fleet, but no recent updates on this initiative have been provided.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com