Traverse City, Mich. — Avelo Airlines has announced it will suspend flight service at Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) for the 2026 season, depriving the region of one of its commercial air connections and leaving travelers with fewer nonstop carrier options.
According to the airline, the move comes as part of a broader network restructuring as Avelo transitions to a new fleet and reevaluates its route profitability.
In a statement reported by local media, Avelo outlined its strategy to pause operations in Traverse City this year with plans to return in 2027 once new aircraft better suited to the market are in service.
Airport officials say they remain in contact with Avelo and are optimistic about future flights.
Airport officials weigh in:
“We agree that this aircraft transition is well suited for our local passengers and feel this is a smart move,” Cherry Capital Airport CEO Kevin C. Klein said, referring to the airline’s strategy as it works toward a long-term return. “We look forward to welcoming Avelo back to TVC when service resumes.”
Avelo had operated seasonal service between Cherry Capital Airport and Tweed-New Haven Airport in Connecticut, among other destinations, before the suspension. The airline said the decision stems from changing fleet plans and a desire to operate aircraft that fit the economics of the route — something the current schedule and equipment could not support next season.
In a broader context, the airline is phasing out smaller Boeing 737-700 aircraft and moving toward larger and more efficient jets, which it says will help support future service when new planes arrive.
Local reaction and context:
The news comes as Avelo has faced national and regional controversy over its past charter work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which drew local protests in 2025. While airport leaders had previously stated there were no deportation flights operating out of TVC, the issue stirred community debate over the airline’s presence in Northern Michigan.
Despite the suspension, Klein emphasized that TVC views Avelo as a partner:
“We still believe Cherry Capital Airport is an important part of Avelo’s long-term network,” he said. “We’ll continue working together to restore service that benefits our community.”
Travelers planning summer 2026 trips should check with airlines directly for the most current schedules and alternative options.
Flights Still Available at Cherry Capital Airport (TVC)
Carriers & Routes Serving TVC (2026)
(Subject to change — check airline schedules before booking)
Delta Air Lines
- Detroit (DTW) — Multiple daily flights
- Minneapolis (MSP) — Seasonal / select days
United Airlines
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) — Multiple daily flights
- Denver (DEN) — Seasonal / select days
American Airlines
- Philadelphia (PHL) — Daily service
- Charlotte (CLT) — Seasonal service
Alaska Airlines
- Seattle (SEA) — Seasonal / select days
Sun Country Airlines
- Minneapolis (MSP) — Seasonal vacation service
💡 Tips for Travelers
- With Avelo departing in 2026, travelers may need to connect through larger hubs like Chicago, Detroit, or Minneapolis.
- Check airline websites for updated schedules — especially for seasonal routes.
- Consider local charter and private flight options if commercial service is limited.
