Hill Country Chronicle

Representative Chip Roy of Texas has announced the approval of a nonstop flight between San Antonio International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The Department of Transportation granted American Airlines permission to operate this route, which Roy described as "a long-awaited and well-deserved victory for the people of San Antonio, the surrounding region, and our nation’s military and veterans."

Roy emphasized that this achievement results from persistent efforts to secure necessary legislative language in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. He noted that residents of San Antonio, including many active-duty service members and veterans, had been without a direct flight to Washington due to outdated legislation.

The congressman detailed his advocacy work in the House of Representatives, highlighting an April 2023 bipartisan letter signed by all members of the San Antonio delegation supporting the legislative change. Although an amendment he proposed fell short initially, it set the stage for a compromise facilitated by Senator Ted Cruz.

In July 2024, both Roy and Cruz led a bipartisan delegation urging DOT approval for American Airlines' application. Roy expressed gratitude towards Senator Cruz's leadership, fellow congressional members from San Antonio, and American Airlines for their roles in overcoming obstacles to establish this new route.

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