Airlines

Uncovering the History of Flight Express: From Two Planes to 40 Destinations





The history of Flight Express began in the early 1980s, when the airline was established by a group of entrepreneurs in Santa Barbara, California. The original mission of the airline was to provide affordable, reliable and convenient air transportation for business and leisure travelers. Since its inception, Flight Express has become a leader in the regional airline industry, providing flights to more than 40 destinations throughout the United States.

Flight Express started out with a fleet of just two planes: the Piper Chieftain and the Beechcraft Baron. The first Flight Express flight was on June 15, 1983, from Santa Barbara to Oakland, California. Over the years, the airline has grown and expanded its fleet to include a variety of aircraft, including the Boeing 737, the Airbus A320, the Embraer ERJ 145 and the Bombardier CRJ 200.

One of the most important milestones in the history of Flight Express was the acquisition of Reno Air in 2000. This acquisition allowed Flight Express to expand its network into the western United States, providing service to key markets such as Reno, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Francisco. This expanded network enabled the airline to offer more competitive fares and better service to its customers.

Another important milestone in the history of Flight Express was the launch of its frequent flyer program in 2004. The program, called Express Rewards, allowed customers to earn points on every Flight Express flight they took. These points could then be redeemed for free flights or other rewards.





In 2007, Flight Express made history when it became the first US airline to offer in-flight Wi-Fi on all its flights. This service allowed passengers to stay connected while in the air, giving them access to their email, social media, and other online services.

Unfortunately, there have been several incidents involving the airline over the years. In 1997, a Flight Express plane crashed in bad weather near the Las Vegas airport, killing all of the passengers and crew on board. In 2003, the airline was the subject of a federal investigation into its maintenance practices, which resulted in the airline paying a fine and making changes to its safety procedures.

Despite these incidents, Flight Express has continued to make progress and evolve over the years. Today, the airline is one of the most respected regional carriers in the United States, offering reliable and affordable air travel to more than 40 destinations. With its fleet of modern aircraft, its commitment to safety, and its innovative services, Flight Express is poised to remain a leader in the regional airline industry for years to come.