American Airlines adds daily nonstop flight between McAllen and Phoenix

American Airlines will launch daily nonstop service between McAllen Miller International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport next summer, expanding westward connectivity for Rio Grande Valley travelers.

The route will begin June 4, 2026, with ticket sales opening Saturday, according to a news release from the city of McAllen. 

Phoenix is one of American’s largest hubs, offering onward connections across the western U.S. and internationally.

Brian Znotins, American’s senior vice president of network and schedule planning, said the new route is part of the airline’s broader network expansion from regional markets.

“With new routes from places like McAllen, Texas, and more, we’re providing residents one-stop access to seal business deals, take a dream vacation with friends or family, and enjoy soccer matches on the global stage,” Znotins said in the release.

The announcement comes as McAllen continues to work to preserve its only nonstop international flight to Mexico City, which city leaders have said is critical to trade, corporate travel, and binational business ties.

As previously reported by the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal, McAllen officials have warned that the loss of the Mexico City route could weaken the region’s direct access to one of Mexico’s primary business and government centers and disrupt travel for thousands of passengers.

Still, city officials say the new route westward is an economic and connectivity gain for the region.

“This new route strengthens McAllen’s position as a gateway for commerce, tourism, and family connectivity,” McAllen City Manager Isaac J. Tawil said. “We are grateful for American’s continued investment in McAllen.”

Airport Director Jeremy A. Santoscoy said the new service also expands access beyond Arizona.

“This new nonstop service directly connects McAllen International Airport to Arizona’s capital while providing our region with an additional strategic gateway to the West Coast,” Santoscoy said.

McAllen International Airport currently offers nonstop service to Dallas, Houston, Orlando, Las Vegas, Austin, and Phoenix through partnerships with American Airlines, United, Allegiant, and Delta.