SOUTH BEND — South Bend International Airport will celebrate the arrival of American Airlines’ nonstop flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport with a ribbon cutting ceremony and gate celebration on Thursday, June 7. Media must arrive by 11:50 a.m. to be escorted through security.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at Gate 3 at 12:25 p.m. Speakers include Indiana Economic Development Corporation President Elaine Bedel, South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, St. Joseph County Commissioners President Andrew Kosetielney, St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board President David Sage, South Bend Regional Chamber President Jeff Rea, and a representative from American Airlines.

Passengers boarding the inaugural flight will enjoy cake, beverages, American Airlines goodie bags, and will be able to register to win AAdvantage miles as part of the celebration.

Media will be escorted onto the ramp to film the water cannon salute celebrating the arrival of Flight #2871 from DFW scheduled for 1:12 p.m.

“Direct flights like the ones we are celebrating today play a key part in enhancing economic opportunities and connectivity for Hoosier businesses and travelers,” said Elaine Bedel, president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “As these flights take off, Indiana’s reputation as a destination for business continues to soar to new heights. We’re full steam ahead to ensure we’re connected with the rest of the world, and nonstop services will continue to play a role in attracting the jobs of today and tomorrow to Indiana.”

Media must arrive at 3:15 p.m. to film the celebrations of Flight #2933 to CLT scheduled for 5:14 p.m. Passengers boarding the inaugural flight will celebrate with cake, beverages, and American Airlines goodie bags prior to takeoff.

“The take-off of flights today to two of American Airlines’ largest hubs is a result of the community’s support and choice to fly local,” said SBN’s Executive Director Mike Daigle. “These new flights offer competitive options for both business and leisure travelers from the South Bend region.”

The flights will be operated by American Eagle using CRJ-700 regional jet aircraft with dual-class cabins and 65 seats. Flights will depart daily from SBN to DFW at 6:48 a.m. and 1:55 p.m. They will return to SBN daily from DFW at 1:23 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Flights to CLT will leave SBN daily at 8:05 a.m. and 5:14 p.m. returning to South Bend each day at 11:30 a.m. and 7:55 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at www.aa.com.