San Antonio Standard

Congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas has urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg to consider the need for a direct flight between San Antonio and the nation's capital. Specifically, Gonzales emphasized the importance of adding a nonstop flight from San Antonio International Airport (SAT) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

Gonzales highlighted the significance of this direct flight by pointing out that San Antonio is home to a large military population, with Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) employing over 82,000 active-duty military members and civilian employees. Additionally, Bexar County is home to over 159,000 veterans. The proximity of DCA to key governmental institutions such as the Pentagon and the U.S. Capitol Building further underscores the need for a convenient air connection between San Antonio and Washington, D.C.

During a hearing, Congressman Gonzales stated, "San Antonio is home to one of the largest military populations in the nation. I know that it is critical that we equip our military personnel with the tools they need to succeed. One of those tools is travel, and we have yet to see a direct flight added from DCA to San Antonio. There are a significant number of personnel that travel back and forth from San Antonio to our nation’s capital." He also emphasized, "It is critical that we make this as painless as possible for our men and women in uniform." Gonzales expressed his full support for the discussions about adding a direct flight between San Antonio and DCA.

The Congressman's advocacy for a direct flight between San Antonio and the nation's capital aligns with efforts in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate to expand air travel options. As part of the FAA Reauthorization Act, bipartisan leaders have agreed to add five new slots to DCA outside the 1,250-mile perimeter restriction, opening up possibilities for improved connectivity.

In conclusion, the call for a direct flight between San Antonio and Washington, D.C., serves as a crucial initiative to facilitate seamless travel for military personnel, veterans, and individuals traveling between these two significant locations.