From the start of November this year, the US will have another airline, namely California Pacific Airlines. The airline is based at McClellan-Palamar Airport in Carlsbad, California and will offer flight routes that up until now have not been possible, making life simpler for anyone wishing to fly out of Carlsbad, to destinations that currently are not available to them.
Chairman Ted Vallas is no newcomer to the aviation industry or to the world of business, being the creator of Air Resorts, a regional airline that was in operation for over a decade. He was also the brain behind the Super 580 Aircraft Company as well as dozens of other successful businesses.
California Pacific Airlines: the new routes
Initially there will be just three destinations served from the Californian hub. There will be three flights each week to Las Vegas, four weekly flights to Reno-Lake Tahoe and daily flights to San Jose.
Extra routes moving forward
If this venture is successful, then there are plans to expand the destination list into the west, to include Mexico, Cabo San Lucas and Phoenix.
Will convenience outweigh higher prices?
Creating and maintaining a successful airline is no mean feat and so it remains to be seen whether California Pacific Airlines will prosper or ultimately fail. They are certainly offering convenience, with direct flights from Carlsbad, but this comes at a price with fares significantly higher than those charged by their competitors to the same destinations, albeit flying from San Diego. Will the public pay those higher fees for the advantage of flying from Carlsbad airport, or will they simply choose to pay less and travel further to catch their flights?
Other extra benefits may be the deciding factor
Mickey Bowman, chief operating officer of California Pacific Airlines believes the higher prices are justified, not just for the convenient location of the airport, but due to several other reasons too, all of which come together to create a more pleasant passenger experience. Smooth transit through the airport is promised, along with a decent luggage policy. Unlike many other low cost airlines, two pieces of checked baggage and one carry-on are included in the price. This could definitely reduce the pricing difference for those who don’t like to travel light. In addition, fly with California Pacific Airlines and you’re guaranteed a window or aisle seat as the 50 seat Embraer ERJ145 jets have a 2-1 seat configuration.
Emily is an avid writer with a passion for the travel industry. She also loves learning and writing about nutrition and healthy living. Emily is based in the UK.
