Last Updated on July 25, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) is the main commercial airport serving Santa Rosa and California’s Sonoma wine country. Its compact terminal gives North Bay travelers an alternative to driving to larger Bay Area airports. However, airline service at STS has changed significantly, so older travel guides may list carriers and routes that are no longer available.
As of July 26, 2026, scheduled passenger flights from Santa Rosa Airport are operated by Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. Together, they provide nonstop service to destinations in California, the Pacific Northwest, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Colorado. Some routes operate only on selected days or during certain seasons.
Quick Answer
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines currently fly from Santa Rosa’s Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport. Alaska has the largest STS route selection, American connects through Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth, and Southwest serves Burbank, Denver, Las Vegas, and San Diego, with Austin scheduled to begin in October 2026.
Key Takeaways
- The current scheduled airlines at STS are Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
- Alaska offers the widest selection of nonstop destinations from Santa Rosa.
- American provides useful connections through Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth.
- Southwest began STS service on April 7, 2026, and serves several Western destinations.
- STS recommends arriving two hours before departure, even though it is smaller than major Bay Area airports.
- Routes, operating days, baggage policies, and seasonal schedules can change, so confirm the itinerary directly with the airport and airline before booking.
Which Airlines Fly From Santa Rosa Airport?
The official STS passenger information lists three scheduled passenger airlines. The following table shows their nonstop destinations as published on July 26, 2026.
| Airline | Nonstop destinations from STS | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | Burbank, Los Angeles, Ontario, Orange County, Palm Springs, Portland, San Diego, and Seattle | The largest local route selection and connections through major West Coast airports |
| American Airlines | Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix | Connections to the central, southern, and eastern United States and international itineraries |
| Southwest Airlines | Burbank, Denver, Las Vegas, and San Diego; Austin is scheduled to begin in October 2026 | Western trips, Southwest connections, Rapid Rewards members, and eligible wine travelers |
Note: Palm Springs is a seasonal Alaska destination, and not every route operates every day. Flight schedules can also change between summer and winter. Search using your exact travel dates rather than relying only on a route list.
Alaska Airlines: The Largest Selection of STS Routes
Alaska Airlines offers the broadest nonstop network from Santa Rosa. Its published STS destinations include Burbank, Los Angeles, Ontario, Orange County, Palm Springs, Portland, San Diego, and Seattle.
This range makes Alaska useful for both point-to-point travel and connecting itineraries. Seattle and Portland provide access to Alaska’s Pacific Northwest network, while Los Angeles and the other Southern California airports can provide additional connection opportunities.
Service frequency varies by destination and season. Palm Springs is specifically identified as seasonal, and other routes may operate only on selected days. Travelers should compare the total itinerary, including the connection time and arrival airport, rather than choosing an airline solely by its route count.
Alaska Mileage Plan members can attach their membership number during booking and earn benefits according to the fare and current program rules. Checked-bag charges, seat-selection terms, and change conditions depend on the ticket purchased, so review the final fare details before payment.
Pro Tip: Southern California has several airports with overlapping service from STS. Compare Burbank, Los Angeles, Ontario, Orange County, and San Diego based on your final destination, rental-car cost, and expected ground traffic.
American Airlines: Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth Connections
American Airlines flies nonstop from Santa Rosa to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. These hub routes can be especially useful when the final destination is not served nonstop from STS.
Phoenix is a practical connection point for destinations in the Southwest, Mexico, and parts of the central United States. Dallas/Fort Worth provides a large selection of onward domestic and international connections. A destination displayed on American’s website is not necessarily a nonstop flight from Santa Rosa, so inspect the itinerary for the connection airport and total travel time.
American offers several fare and seat products. Its Main Cabin Extra seating generally provides added legroom and earlier boarding, but availability depends on the aircraft and flight.
American charges checked-bag fees on many domestic Main Cabin and Basic Economy itineraries. Fees and fare restrictions can change, so consult the airline’s current bag and optional-fee page before booking. AAdvantage elite status, qualifying credit cards, and premium fares may include different allowances.
Southwest Airlines: New Santa Rosa Service in 2026
Southwest Airlines began serving Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport on April 7, 2026. Its initial Santa Rosa network included Burbank, Denver, Las Vegas, and San Diego. The airport also lists Austin service beginning in October 2026.
Southwest can be a strong option for travelers who prefer its route network, Rapid Rewards program, or connecting opportunities through airports such as Denver and Las Vegas. Fare products, seat options, checked-bag charges, boarding procedures, and same-day change benefits depend on the rules in effect for the ticket being purchased. Review the complete fare comparison during checkout.
Sonoma County travelers may also benefit from Southwest’s Sip and Ship program. An eligible passenger who is at least 21 years old can check one properly packaged case containing up to 12 bottles of wine at no additional charge when departing STS on a qualifying domestic itinerary. The case must weigh no more than 50 pounds and remain within the airline’s standard checked-bag size limit.
Warning: Wine must be professionally and securely packed. The container should remain unsealed until a Southwest agent inspects it at the ticket counter. State alcohol limits and airline liability rules still apply.
Former Airlines and Outdated Santa Rosa Route Information
Older STS guides may mention Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, or Avelo Airlines. These carriers have operated Santa Rosa routes during earlier periods, but they are not included in the airport’s current scheduled-airline list as of July 26, 2026.
Sun Country previously offered seasonal Santa Rosa flights, including service involving Minneapolis and Las Vegas. United previously connected STS with San Francisco and Denver. These historical routes should not be presented as currently bookable service.
Note: Search results can preserve old airline announcements for years. Confirm current service through the official STS website and then verify that the flight is available for your specific date.
Comparing Airline Options for Santa Rosa Travelers
Best Airline for the Most Nonstop Choices
Alaska Airlines currently offers the largest number of published nonstop destinations from STS. It is the first airline to check when traveling within California, to the Pacific Northwest, or to a destination that can be reached through Seattle, Portland, or Los Angeles.
Best Airline for Long-Distance Connections
American Airlines is often useful for trips that require a connection beyond the West Coast. Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth can connect Santa Rosa passengers to a broad domestic network and to selected international itineraries.
Best Airline for Southwest Connections and Wine Travel
Southwest is worth comparing for Burbank, Denver, Las Vegas, and San Diego, as well as connecting itineraries through its wider network. Its Sip and Ship benefit is particularly relevant to eligible Sonoma County wine travelers.
Best Airline for an International Trip
STS does not currently have scheduled nonstop international flights. International travelers can begin at Santa Rosa and connect through an airline hub. American itineraries may connect through Phoenix or Dallas/Fort Worth, while Alaska and Southwest can provide connections through airports in their respective networks.
When comparing an international itinerary from STS with a nonstop departure from San Francisco or Oakland, include parking, fuel, bridge tolls, ground transportation, checked bags, connection time, and the risk of a missed connection. A higher airfare from STS may still produce a simpler or less expensive overall trip.
How Early Should You Arrive at Santa Rosa Airport?
STS advises passengers to arrive 120 minutes before departure to complete airline check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. The airport is smaller than San Francisco International Airport, but a short security line is not guaranteed.
Airline counters and boarding gates have firm closing times. A passenger who reaches the terminal shortly before departure may be denied check-in or boarding even when the aircraft is still at the gate. Review the airline’s exact cutoff when checking in online.
Adults age 18 and older should carry a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another identification accepted by the Transportation Security Administration. A regular state-issued license that is not REAL ID compliant is no longer accepted as standard checkpoint identification.
Santa Rosa Airport Terminal Amenities
STS has a modernized terminal with Concourses A and B. Its verified passenger amenities include:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Pre-security and post-security food and beverage options
- An ATM and baggage carts
- Vending machines with snacks, drinks, toiletries, medications, and travel accessories
- Electric-vehicle charging stations
- Pet-relief areas before and after security
- Aira Access assistance for blind and low-vision travelers
- Indoor and outdoor seating areas
Food-service hours often follow flight activity and may be more limited than at a major hub. Travelers with dietary restrictions or a late departure should consider bringing an allowed snack after reviewing TSA food and liquid rules.
Parking at Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport
STS parking rates changed on July 1, 2026. The airport currently lists the following maximum daily rates:
| Parking option | Published maximum rate | Useful detail |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term parking | $28 per day | Located east of the terminal |
| Long-term parking | $22 per day | Available in Lots A and B |
| Street parking | $22 per day | Located along Flightline Drive |
| Valet parking | $35 per day | Reservation required |
The airport uses a contactless license-plate-based payment system, although cash assistance is available at the cashier booth. Reservations are recommended during busy travel periods. Check the official STS parking page before departure because prices and procedures may change.
Rental Cars and Ground Transportation
Travelers arriving at STS can choose from on-site rental-car agencies, rideshare services, taxis, private cars, buses, hotel shuttles, and other transportation providers. Rental-car operating hours should be confirmed when making the reservation, especially for late arrivals or early departures. Key-drop boxes are available for some early returns.
SMART rail does not stop directly at the passenger terminal. Travelers using the Sonoma County Airport SMART station need a connecting shuttle or limited local transit service. Check the operating day and schedule before relying on public transportation for a flight.
Passenger pickup and drop-off take place in the marked loading area in front of the terminal. Vehicles should not be left unattended at the curb.
Tips for Choosing the Best Airline for Your Santa Rosa Trip
- Start with the nonstop route. A nonstop flight usually reduces total travel time and avoids missed-connection risk.
- Check the operating days. A route may be available from STS but not on the day you need to travel.
- Compare total itinerary time. Review layover duration, connection airport, and final arrival time.
- Calculate the complete price. Include checked bags, seat selection, fare restrictions, parking, rental cars, and ground transportation.
- Review the aircraft and seat product. Amenities and seat layouts can vary even within the same airline.
- Consider loyalty benefits. Status, credit-card benefits, and redeemable points can change which airline provides the best value.
- Check both STS and larger Bay Area airports. A larger airport may have a lower fare or nonstop international flight, while STS may save driving and parking time.
- Confirm the schedule again before departure. Seasonal routes and departure times can change after booking.
The cheapest ticket is not always the cheapest trip. Parking, baggage, ground transportation, connection time, and the drive to a larger airport can materially change the final cost.
Making the Most of Santa Rosa’s Airline Choices
Santa Rosa Airport offers a smaller and more convenient departure point for many North Bay travelers. Alaska Airlines provides the widest range of local nonstop routes, American Airlines connects passengers through Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth, and Southwest adds several Western destinations plus a useful wine-transport benefit.
The best airline depends on more than the advertised fare. Compare the exact travel date, nonstop availability, connection time, baggage cost, seat options, loyalty benefits, and transportation to the airport. Because STS service changes periodically, use current airport and airline schedules when making the final decision.
Travelers preparing for a trip can also review these guides to choosing a travel toothbrush, comparing hardside carry-on luggage with spinner wheels, and selecting a travel scooter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What airlines operate from Santa Rosa Airport?
As of July 26, 2026, the scheduled passenger airlines at Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport are Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
Where can I fly nonstop from Santa Rosa?
Published nonstop destinations include Burbank, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Ontario, Orange County, Palm Springs, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, and Seattle. Austin service is scheduled to begin in October 2026. Palm Springs and some other routes may be seasonal or operate only on selected days.
Does Santa Rosa Airport have international flights?
STS does not currently have scheduled nonstop international flights. Travelers can book international itineraries that connect through airports such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix, Seattle, Los Angeles, or Denver.
How early should I arrive at STS?
The airport recommends arriving 120 minutes before departure. This allows time for parking, check-in, checked baggage, security screening, and the airline’s boarding cutoff.
Do Sun Country or United still fly from Santa Rosa?
They are not listed among the airport’s current scheduled passenger airlines as of July 26, 2026. Older pages may still describe their former seasonal or hub service from STS.
Can I check a case of wine when flying from STS?
Southwest’s Sip and Ship program allows an eligible passenger age 21 or older to check one properly packaged case containing up to 12 wine bottles at no additional charge on qualifying domestic trips from STS. The case must meet the airline’s weight, size, packaging, and inspection requirements.
Sources
- Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport Passenger FAQ — current airlines and nonstop destinations
- STS Check-In Information — recommended arrival time and airline counter cutoffs
- STS Terminal Amenities — Wi-Fi, food, accessibility, pet-relief areas, and passenger services
- STS Parking — parking rates and payment procedures effective July 1, 2026
- Southwest Airlines Newsroom — April 2026 launch of Santa Rosa service
- Transportation Security Administration — acceptable checkpoint identification and REAL ID requirements
