American Airlines unleashes special flights for Daytona 500 fans.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, and Washington, D.C. residents gearing up for a high-octane experience at the Daytona 500 will now have the luxury of swift and hassle-free travel, thanks to American Airlines. The airline has unveiled special event nonstop flights connecting the racing fans to the iconic Daytona International Speedway.

Flying from Dallas-Fort Worth, TX (DFW) and Washington, D.C. (DCA), American Airlines aims to elevate the travel experience for race fans. Additionally, the airline is deploying larger aircraft for flights originating from its hub in Charlotte, NC (CLT).

For Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), the flight schedule is as follows:

• February 15 & 16 – E175: Departure from Dallas at 12:24 p.m., arrival at Daytona Beach (DAB) at 4 p.m., and return from DAB to DFW at 4:30 p.m.
• February 19 – A320: Departure from Dallas at 9:30 a.m., arrive at DAB at 1 p.m., and return from DAB to DFW at 1:45 p.m.

For Washington, D.C. (DCA), flights will follow the schedule below:

• February 16 & 19 with CR9 aircraft: Departure from D.C. at 8:40 a.m., arrival at DAB at 11:02 a.m., return from DAB at 11:33 a.m., and arrival in D.C. at 1:45 p.m.

From the Charlotte hub (CLT), American Airlines will deploy larger aircraft on the following dates:

• February 15 - Three A321s and one A319
• February 16 - Four A321s
• February17 - One A320, one A319, and two CR9s
• February 19 - Four A321s

"D.C. and Dallas are the top 3 and 7 markets (respectively) for passengers flying in and out of DAB, so anytime these flights are offered, it is a great enhancement for air service for the community and our tourism industry," said Joanne Magley, the airport manager of air service, marketing, and customer experience.

American Airlines, who previously announced the resumption of seasonal service to Washington, D.C. in November, will commence twice-weekly nonstop flights from DCA to DAB beginning February 17, 2024, and running through May 5, 2024. These flights will depart DAB on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:53 a.m. and arrive in D.C. at 1:59 p.m.

Magley highlighted ongoing conversations with American Airlines route planners, including discussions about the demand for more flights and destinations from Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB). These talks encompass prominent events such as the Daytona 500, Bike Week, and Welcome to Rockville, attracting thousands of visitors.