American Airlines Is Bringing Commercial Flights Back to Naples, Florida, After 25 Years

Updated: June 29, 2026, 11:50am CDT

Edited by:

Jump to Section

Table of Contents

American Airlines Brings Commercial Service Back to Naples
Final Thoughts

We may be compensated when you click on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Naples, Florida, will have commercial flights for the first time in roughly 25 years.

American Airlines plans to launch new nonstop service between Naples Airport (APF) and Charlotte (CLT) this December, giving Southwest Florida travelers another option beyond Fort Myers (RSW).

Better yet, you can already book this new route with AAdvantage miles and potentially save hundreds over paying cash. Here’s what you need to know.

American Airlines Brings Commercial Service Back to Naples

Beginning December 2, 2026, American Airlines plans to operate twice-daily nonstop flights between Naples (APF) and Charlotte (CLT) aboard a Canadair Regional Jet 700 (CRJ700).

For travelers headed to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) has long been the default option, located about 35 to 45 miles north of Naples. While RSW offers far more nonstop destinations, anyone visiting Naples, Marco Island, or nearby beach communities will soon have the option of flying much closer to their final destination.

The return of commercial service is especially notable because Naples Airport hasn’t seen scheduled airline flights in about 25 years. Instead, it’s primarily used for private aviation, handling more than 100,000 aircraft operations annually and serving corporate jets, charter flights, and flight schools.

Naples Airport Terminal — Image Credit: Naples Airport

Interestingly, getting commercial flights back wasn’t as simple as assigning an airplane.

Naples Airport has a 75,000-pound maximum aircraft weight limit, which initially raised questions about whether American’s planned CRJ900 could operate there. The airline ultimately opted for the smaller CRJ700, allowing the new route to move forward while remaining within the airport’s weight restrictions.

Charlotte also makes a lot of sense here. It’s one of American’s largest hubs, so travelers can connect to hundreds of destinations across the airline’s network with just 1 stop.

Hot Tip:

Award space is already available on the new route starting at 8,500 AAdvantage miles one-way. Considering cash fares currently start around $460, redeeming miles can deliver excellent value and save you hundreds of dollars on this new service.

Final Thoughts

It’s been a long time coming, but Naples, Florida, is finally getting commercial airline service back.

While Fort Myers will continue to be the primary airport for most Southwest Florida visitors, American’s new Charlotte route gives travelers headed specifically to Naples and Marco Island a much more convenient option.

Better yet, award travelers can already book seats for as little as 8,500 AAdvantage miles, making this one of the best early redemption opportunities for anyone planning a trip to Florida’s Paradise Coast.