Austin, Knoxville, Las Vegas, Costa Rica San José, Nashville, Reno-Tahoe, El Paso and More Countries Joins Southwest’s New Routes for 2026

Southwest Airlines is taking significant steps to expand its network with the launch of seven new routes set to debut in October 2026. These routes reflect the airline’s commitment to offering passengers more travel choices for both domestic and international destinations. Each route is carefully chosen to meet the growing demand for connectivity, tourism, and business travel.

Let’s dive deeper into each of these seven exciting routes and explore how they fit into Southwest’s larger strategy for growth and connectivity.

1. Austin (AUS) to Memphis (MEM) – Year-Round Service

The Austin to Memphis route is making a comeback as part of Southwest’s strategy to reinforce its dominance at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), which is one of the airline’s busiest hubs. This route will now operate year-round, providing passengers with a consistent and reliable service between Texas and Tennessee.

Austin, with its booming tech industry and vibrant music scene, is a prime destination for both business and leisure travellers. Meanwhile, Memphis, known for its rich cultural heritage, including its deep ties to blues and rock ‘n’ roll music, has seen increasing demand from both tourists and professionals looking to connect with the region’s growing business scene.

The year-round service ensures that passengers from both cities will have more options when travelling between these key destinations, making it easier for Austin residents to enjoy the cultural richness of Memphis and vice versa.

2. Austin (AUS) to Santa Rosa / Sonoma County (STS), California – Seasonal, Saturdays Only

Wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike will rejoice with Southwest’s new seasonal route from Austin to Santa Rosa / Sonoma County in California. Available on Saturdays only, this seasonal service will operate for part of the year, catering to those looking for weekend getaways to the iconic Sonoma County wine region.

Santa Rosa and the surrounding Sonoma County area are known for their breathtaking vineyards, rolling hills, and welcoming wineries. The region is a prime spot for wine tours and outdoor activities like hiking and hot-air ballooning. With this seasonal route, Austin residents now have direct access to one of California’s premier wine destinations, reducing the need for connecting flights or long drives from major airports like San Francisco.

By focusing on a Saturday-only schedule, Southwest is tapping into the high-demand weekend travel market, perfect for short vacations or quick trips to enjoy the region’s best offerings.

3. Austin (AUS) to Knoxville (TYS) – Seasonal, Saturdays Only

In addition to the Santa Rosa route, Southwest is also adding a seasonal service from Austin to Knoxville, operating on Saturdays. This new route targets those wanting to explore the charming landscapes and vibrant cultural scene of East Tennessee.

Knoxville, the third-largest city in Tennessee, has become an increasingly popular destination for both outdoor adventurers and history buffs. With proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains and historic sites such as The Tennessee Theatre and World’s Fair Park, this route serves not only tourists but also those travelling for business in the region. Knoxville’s rapidly growing tech industry is another factor contributing to the demand for easier access between these two cities.

This seasonal route provides Austin residents with the opportunity to access Knoxville’s outdoor adventures and historic charm with ease, while also offering Knoxville’s residents a straightforward way to visit the Texas capital and its vibrant tech scene.

4. Las Vegas (LAS) to San José, Costa Rica (SJO) – New Daily International Service

In a major shift, Southwest Airlines will introduce its first-ever international red-eye flight with a new service from Las Vegas to San José, Costa Rica. This daily, year-round flight will mark a pivotal step in Southwest’s international expansion, connecting one of the world’s largest entertainment capitals with one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

Costa Rica has long been a top destination for eco-tourism, adventure travel, and relaxation. Its national parks, rainforests, and beaches offer unparalleled natural beauty. For Las Vegas travellers, this route provides an easy escape to a tropical paradise. Costa Rica’s reputation as a gateway to Central America makes it an important addition to Southwest’s network, especially for those eager to explore new international destinations beyond the US.

This route offers the first overnight flight to an international destination, allowing passengers to make the most of their vacation time. The red-eye flight will leave Las Vegas late at night and land in Costa Rica the next morning, offering a perfect balance for both leisure and business travellers who need to maximise their time abroad.

5. Nashville (BNA) to Reno-Tahoe (RNO) – Year-Round Service

The new service from Nashville to Reno-Tahoe brings more connections to one of the most popular regions in Nevada. Whether you’re headed for the ski slopes in the winter or looking to explore the Lake Tahoe area’s outdoor wonders, this new year-round route connects Tennessee’s Music City with the stunning Sierra Nevada region.

With year-round service, this flight will appeal to a broad range of travellers, from outdoor lovers seeking ski slopes in the winter to those enjoying sunny days by the lake during the summer. Reno-Tahoe is known for its proximity to world-class resorts, gaming, and vibrant arts and culture. It also serves as a gateway to exploring the larger Northern California area. The new connection will certainly increase tourism to Reno-Tahoe, while also supporting business connections from Nashville, a growing hub for the tech and entertainment sectors.

6. Nashville (BNA) to El Paso (ELP) – Year-Round Service

This service is making its return to Southwest’s network after a break. Connecting Nashville to El Paso, this route is another important addition to Southwest’s growing network in the Southwest U.S. and will operate year-round.

El Paso is famous for its blend of Mexican-American culture and its proximity to scenic national parks, such as Guadalupe Mountains and Franklin Mountains. Nashville travellers can now visit this desert city with ease, while El Paso residents have better access to the vibrant culture and entertainment scene of Music City. This connection strengthens Southern U.S. ties, offering an easier path to explore two unique cultures, from Tennessee’s honky-tonk music to the stunning desert landscapes of West Texas.

7. Nashville (BNA) to Manchester-Boston Regional (MHT) – Year-Round Service

Another returning route, this year-round service between Nashville and Manchester-Boston strengthens Southwest’s offerings in the Northeastern U.S. and provides easier access for residents of both cities. Manchester-Boston Regional is an important airport in New Hampshire, serving as a key gateway to the Northeast.

Manchester’s central location makes it an excellent launch point for those seeking to explore New England’s historic cities, mountain resorts, and seaside towns. On the other hand, Nashville’s growing economy, especially in the healthcare and entertainment sectors, continues to drive demand for air service. This route will cater to both business and leisure travellers looking to explore or connect between Tennessee and New England.

What These New Routes Mean for Southwest Airlines

With these seven new routes, Southwest Airlines is positioning itself to provide more convenient connections for both domestic and international passengers. From business hubs like Nashville and Austin to popular leisure destinations like Costa Rica, Southwest’s new services aim to cater to a diverse group of travellers.

The addition of San José, Costa Rica, as an international destination is especially significant, as it marks the airline’s push into international red-eye flights, and it opens the door to more international routes in the future.

Additionally, the new routes are designed to tap into the growing demand for travel, whether it’s for a quick weekend getaway to Santa Rosa or an outdoor adventure to Reno-Tahoe or El Paso.

As Southwest continues to expand its network, these routes will play a key role in attracting both leisure and business travellers who are eager for new destinations and better connectivity.

Final Thoughts: Why These Routes Matter

Southwest Airlines is continuing its momentum in 2026 with exciting expansions and new offerings. These routes represent more than just new flights; they symbolize Southwest’s growing role in making travel more accessible and convenient for all. Whether you’re flying to Costa Rica for a tropical retreat or heading to Knoxville to explore the charm of East Tennessee, these new services make it easier to reach your dream destination.

For Southwest passengers, the airline’s efforts to expand its network mean more choice, better connections, and exciting new travel options. Keep your eyes on Southwest as it continues to grow its routes and bring more destinations to travellers worldwide.

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