After launching its Newark to St. Augustine route on November 19th, 2021, Elite Airways is adding another airport to its network, Portland Intl. Jetport (PWM) in Maine. According to the press release on the St. Augustine airports website, this service is set to begin on March 26th and will be operated on Saturdays southbound and Sundays northbound with tickets set at $199 each way. 

“Elite Airways is expanding commercial air service in St. Augustine with a new nonstop to our hometown of Portland Maine,” said John Pearsall, President of Elite Airways. “We believe Mainers will enjoy having a new Florida destination to explore—one with historical landmarks, pristine beaches, and world-class golf courses and resorts. We’re also pleased that our Newark/St. Augustine service is being well received by the community so we’re adding a third day this spring and will look for additional opportunities to expand service at NFRA in the coming year.”

“Elite Airways’ new nonstop flights provide a new economic connection point between St. Johns County and Portland, one of the fastest-growing metro areas in Maine,” said Bruce Maguire, Chairman of the St. Johns County Airport Authority. “We are thankful for the partnership between Elite Airways’ leadership and Airport Administration which enables us to offer this expanded travel option serving both business and recreational travel needs.”

The aircraft type that will be used will most likely be a mix of what is already being used on the Newark route (CRJ-700 and CRJ-900).

Overall it seems that Elite is seeing potential in St. Augustine and is most likely doing well with the route to Newark. Only time will tell if Elite and possibly other airlines will add routes to build up St. Augustine's route network. Should you want to see more information about this route announcement, feel free to look at the press release on the St. Augustine airport website at: https://www.flynf.com. Do you think this route will succeed, let me know in the comments below.