Thinking about the next flight? Well keep your ears and eyes open because Delta Air Lines has just made an announcement that it will stop flying to Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF) as of this November. That means all flights between Austin and Midland will end. This left many travellers wondering what happens to their tickets and what options they have next.
Why Delta Is Leaving Midland
Even though it was introduced in April 2024, the route between Austin and Midland was never really popular amongst travellers. On average, there were only approximately six out ten seat being occupied. This wasn’t working out to be very feasible for the airline.
Delta Airlines has made the decision to concentrate on areas where the demand is much greater rather than to continue fly a route that is losing money. There are additional flights that are being added to towns like Denver and Palm Springs as well as overseas locations like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas and therefore Austin is emerging as one of Delta’s main hubs.
What Makes Midland International Air and Space Port Unique?
MAF is situated between Midland and Odessa. This is mostly regional airport and mainly services the eastern New Mexico and western Texas. Regardless of having the term space in its name, it isn’t a significant launch location. Although the airport is rarely used for space activities, the FAA did authorise it in 2014 for restricted space missions, including satellite launches and vehicle tests.
What Happens If You Already Have a Ticket?
If you booked a Delta flight between Austin and Midland that’s scheduled after November 9, 2025, don’t panic. You have a few options:
- Full Refund: Delta should give you your money back if the airline cancels your route. No cancellation fees apply.
- Rebooking: Delta could offer to reroute you via a different airport, such flying into Austin and then setting up ground transportation.
- Switching Carriers: Rebooking your trip with Southwest Airlines is another option, since they will still operate flights between Austin and Midland.
If you have booked a ticket with Delta Airlines, be sure to check your emails as Delta will send through updates. Be sure to check early so that you are aware of what’s happening regarding your flights.
How the Change Affects Travelers and Midland
Unfortunately for passengers, this change means that they have a fewer direct flight options into the Permian Basin region. Travellers will have to rely on options for making their trips.
This change is indeed a setback for the Midland community. However, even though the community is disappointed as a result of Delta’s announcement, there are still many supporters who are positive about this change. In order to attract additional airlines in the future, the airport intends to expand and renovate.
The fact that Southwest will now be the sole airline operating nonstop service between Midland and Austin might increase its market share in the area.
Why This Matters
Airlines make these decisions based on numbers:
- Low seat demand: If there are too many empty seats on the flight, the route gets cut.
- Hub strategy: Airlines like Delta want to strengthen major airports, and Austin is now a big focus.
- Regional ripple effect: Local communities and travellers will feel the impact
Final Thoughts
The decision that Delta Airlines has made to leave Midland is an important part of the greater efforts to improve Austin. As the city developed, airlines did flock in however, not all routes were working out feasible. As it stands, airlines are currently making adjustments and prioritising routes that prove to be consistent
For now, all those travellers who have already booked flights with Delta airlines, should check their email inboxes for any updates. If needed, ask for refunds or check for alternative bookings.
Austin will continue to be a significant participant in airline networks for years to come due to its rising hub status.