Avelo, a budget airline, is closing its West Coast services.
In a significant move, Avelo Airlines has announced the closure of its West Coast operations at Hollywood Burbank Airport, effective from December 2, 2025. The decision, driven by financial challenges and a competitive market environment, comes after a strategic assessment of the airline's operations in the region[1][2][3][4].
The primary reason for the closure is the inability of the West Coast operations, particularly from Burbank, to generate sufficient financial returns. Avelo has faced challenging market conditions that have limited its potential for growth and profitability in the West Coast region[4].
Despite facing protests and a contract with the Department of Homeland Security that did not impact its business, the airline has decided to focus on expanding its operations on the East Coast, where it sees more opportunities for growth and profitability[1][2][4]. Avelo operates from multiple hubs on the East Coast, including airports in North Carolina, Florida, Connecticut, and New Hampshire[1][2][4].
The fleet currently based at Burbank will be relocated to support the growth of its East Coast operations. This strategic move aims to enhance the airline's presence in areas with better financial prospects[1][3]. Avelo is also offering its California-based employees the opportunity to transfer to other bases across the country, ensuring that staff are not left without options[2][3].
Customers with existing bookings will be able to cancel their flights and receive refunds online[1][2]. Avelo Airlines currently serves 13 routes from its Southern California base[1][2]. However, the airline has not specified which areas its West Coast fleet will be relocated to for more efficient growth.
This decision marks a significant shift for Avelo Airlines, which has faced backlash for signing a contract with the Trump administration to transport migrants to detention centers[5]. The airline's remaining hubs are solely located on the East Coast.
In conclusion, Avelo Airlines' closure of its West Coast operations at Hollywood Burbank Airport is a response to financial challenges and a competitive market environment. The airline plans to bolster its East Coast operations and relocate its West Coast fleet to other areas where it sees more "efficient longer-term growth prospects."[1][3]
[1] Avelo Airlines Announces Shutdown of West Coast Operations [2] Avelo Airlines to Close Hollywood Burbank Airport Base [3] Avelo Airlines to Relocate West Coast Fleet for Growth [4] Avelo Airlines Faces Financial Challenges on West Coast [5] Avelo Airlines Faces Backlash for Contract with Trump Administration
The closure of Avelo Airlines' West Coast operations at Hollywood Burbank Airport is a result of financial difficulties and a competitive market environment. To address these issues, the airline plans to focus on expanding its operations on the East Coast, where it anticipates better financial prospects in the industry. The fleet currently based at Burbank will be relocated to support this strategic move in the business sector, with a goal to improve its presence in areas with more promising prospects.
