DALLAS — Air Wisconsin Airlines (ZW), the US's only CRJ200 operator, has terminated its regional capacity agreement with American Airlines (AA), its only mainline partner. 

Currently, ZW operates flights for AA as American Eagle. After April 2025, the partnership will transition to a codeshare and interline relationship. 

This move comes after ZW announced on Friday, January 10, that it would undergo a “strategic realignment” to expand charter operations and focus on federally subsidized Essential Air Service (EAS) routes. These EAS routes connect underserved and rural communities to air travel and are vital transport links; without them, residents in these areas would lack the ability to travel by air. 

According to Air Wisconsin, demand for the CRJ200 has increased. It has become more popular among National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) sports teams for travel to events and tournaments; hence, the airline aims to tap into the charter market. In addition, the 60 CRJ200s that ZW operates have a capacity of 50 seats, which is ideal for serving EAS routes and smaller charter groups. 

 Robert Binns, President & CEO of Air Wisconsin, said that the “strategic shift underscores our adaptability and commitment to delivering reliable, customized air travel solutions where they are most needed."

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