Delta Air Lines is pulling the plug on a short-lived route out of Midland, Texas. Starting this November, the airline will no longer serve Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF). If you’ve gotten used to that quick hop to Austin, you’ll need to rethink your travel plans. Let’s break down why Delta is stepping away and what this means for local travelers.
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Delta’s decision to leave Midland might sound sudden, but it’s all about numbers. The airline had been running three daily flights between Midland and Austin. Unfortunately, not enough passengers were boarding those planes. Department of Transportation data shows those flights were running at under 60% capacity — far below what Delta needs to keep a route alive.
So, despite the route only being around for about a year, Delta is cutting its losses. It’s a strategic move to shift capacity to more profitable or in-demand areas.
Strategy
This move is part of Delta’s broader plan to optimize its network. CEO Edward Bastian has hinted before that the airline would continue to fine-tune its routes. Even though Delta had a strong Q2 in 2025 financially, some routes — like Midland to Austin — just didn’t pull their weight.
Interestingly, some industry analysts believe Delta may have kept the route going mostly to maintain a gate presence in Austin, which has become a key growth market for the airline. But once that need faded, so did the route.
Impact
If you live in West Texas and counted on Delta’s Midland-Austin route, this news definitely shakes things up. But don’t panic — Southwest Airlines is still offering a daily nonstop flight to Austin, and they already control nearly half of Midland’s air traffic. That means you still have a direct option, even if you’ll need to get used to a new airline.
And city officials aren’t sitting back. Midland’s city council is actively working on airport upgrades, including a multimillion-dollar terminal expansion aimed at making MAF more competitive and passenger-friendly. Councilwoman Robin Poole emphasized that while Delta’s departure is disappointing, the city remains committed to attracting new air service options.
Alternatives
Here’s a quick look at current options for Midland–Austin travelers:
| Airline | Route | Frequency | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | Midland to Austin | 3x daily | Ending Nov 2025 |
| Southwest Airlines | Midland to Austin | 1x daily | Ongoing |
Southwest now becomes the go-to for nonstops between Midland and Austin, so travelers will want to book early — especially during the holiday rush.
Growth
Even as Delta pulls out of Midland, it’s doubling down in Austin. New nonstops to Cancun and Cabo San Lucas will launch on December 20, just in time for winter getaways. Delta is also opening a new permanent flight attendant base in Austin, signaling long-term plans for expansion in Central Texas.
This shows a clear shift in Delta’s priorities: Austin is rising, while smaller markets like Midland are getting trimmed.
Reminder
If there’s one thing this change highlights, it’s how fluid the airline industry really is. Routes come and go based on demand, costs, and strategy. For travelers, it’s a reminder to never take nonstop flights for granted — especially in smaller cities.
So, what’s next for Midland? Possibly new carriers or expanded routes as the city continues to invest in the airport’s future. Until then, it’s time for local travelers to adjust and look at their new options.
FAQs
Why is Delta leaving Midland airport?
Low passenger demand made the route unsustainable.
When will Delta stop flights to Midland?
Flights will end in November 2025.
Are there still flights from Midland to Austin?
Yes, Southwest Airlines still flies daily to Austin.
Is Delta adding any new routes?
Yes, new flights from Austin to Cancun and Cabo.
Will Midland airport get new airlines soon?
City officials are working to attract new carriers.
