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Palm Springs will again have flights to Sonoma Valley wine country
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Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 17:23 GMT by The Desert Sun🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The new seasonal flights will kick off Oct. 26 and be five days a week.
Alaska Airlines Launches Direct Flights from Palm Springs to Sonoma County's Wine Country
In a move set to delight wine enthusiasts, sun-seekers, and business travelers alike, Alaska Airlines has announced the launch of new nonstop flights connecting Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) with Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa, California. This exciting development, slated to begin in early 2026, promises to bridge the gap between the desert oasis of Palm Springs and the lush vineyards of Sonoma County's renowned wine country. The announcement comes at a time when domestic travel is rebounding strongly, and airlines are eager to capitalize on niche routes that cater to leisure and experiential tourism.
The new service will operate seasonally, aligning with peak travel periods to maximize appeal for those escaping the desert heat or seeking cooler climes for wine tasting adventures. Flights are scheduled to commence on March 15, 2026, with daily departures during the initial launch phase, potentially scaling to multiple flights per day based on demand. Alaska Airlines plans to deploy its Embraer 175 aircraft for this route, which offers a comfortable 76-seat configuration, including first-class options and premium economy seating. This choice of aircraft ensures a smooth, efficient journey of approximately two hours, making it an attractive alternative to the longer drives or multi-stop flights that travelers currently endure.
Palm Springs, known for its mid-century modern architecture, vibrant arts scene, and as a haven for Hollywood celebrities, has long been a magnet for tourists from across the country. However, connectivity to Northern California's wine regions has been limited, often requiring connections through major hubs like San Francisco or Los Angeles. This new direct link to Santa Rosa opens up seamless access to Sonoma County, home to over 425 wineries, including world-famous producers in areas like Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley. Travelers can now hop on a morning flight from PSP and be sipping award-winning Pinot Noirs or Chardonnays by lunchtime.
Alaska Airlines, a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group and a member of the Oneworld alliance, has been expanding its West Coast network aggressively in recent years. The airline already serves PSP with flights to several destinations, including Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco, but this addition marks its first foray into Sonoma County from the Coachella Valley. "We're thrilled to connect two iconic California destinations that embody the best of leisure and lifestyle travel," said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances at Alaska Airlines, in a statement. "Palm Springs and Sonoma County share a passion for relaxation, great food, and outdoor experiences. This route will make it easier for our guests to explore both without the hassle of long drives or layovers."
The economic implications of this new flight are significant for both regions. Palm Springs International Airport, which has seen record passenger numbers in recent years, stands to benefit from increased traffic and revenue. In 2024 alone, PSP handled over 3 million passengers, a surge driven by post-pandemic travel demand and expansions in service from carriers like Alaska, American, and Southwest. Airport director Harry Barrett expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. "This nonstop service to Santa Rosa is a game-changer for our community," Barrett noted. "It not only enhances connectivity for Coachella Valley residents but also attracts more visitors to Palm Springs by making multi-destination trips more feasible. Imagine flying into PSP for a desert getaway and then jetting off to wine country—it's the ultimate California vacation combo."
On the other end, Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport, named after the beloved "Peanuts" cartoonist who called the area home, has been positioning itself as the gateway to Northern California's wine and culinary scene. The airport, located just 55 miles north of San Francisco, offers a more relaxed alternative to the bustling SFO, with shorter lines and easier access to surrounding attractions. Sonoma County tourism officials are equally excited. "Alaska Airlines' new route from Palm Springs is a perfect match for our destination," said Claudia Vecchio, president and CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. "We welcome visitors from the desert who are eager to experience our world-class wineries, farm-to-table dining, and stunning redwood forests. This flight will boost our local economy by bringing in more high-value tourists interested in sustainable travel and authentic experiences."
Beyond wine, Sonoma County offers a wealth of attractions that complement the Palm Springs vibe. Visitors can explore the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, hike along the rugged Pacific coastline, or indulge in spa treatments at luxurious resorts like the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. The region's farm-fresh cuisine, artisanal cheeses, and craft breweries add to its allure, making it a year-round destination. For Palm Springs residents, who often seek respite from the intense summer heat, Sonoma's milder climate—with average temperatures in the 70s during peak seasons—provides an ideal escape. Conversely, Northern Californians can now easily access Palm Springs' golf courses, hiking trails in Joshua Tree National Park, and events like the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival or Modernism Week.
This route also aligns with broader trends in the aviation industry, where airlines are focusing on point-to-point services to underserved markets rather than funneling everything through mega-hubs. Alaska Airlines has been at the forefront of this shift, particularly on the West Coast, where it competes with low-cost carriers like Southwest and legacy airlines like United. The airline's commitment to sustainability, including its use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on select routes, adds an eco-friendly dimension to the new service. Passengers on the PSP-STS flights can expect amenities like free streaming entertainment, Wi-Fi, and a menu featuring West Coast-inspired snacks and beverages, including local wines from both regions.
Travel experts predict strong demand for the route, especially among millennials and baby boomers who prioritize experiential travel. "Wine tourism is booming, and direct flights like this make it more accessible," said travel analyst Henry Harteveldt of Atmosphere Research Group. "Palm Springs has a sophisticated traveler base that's perfect for Sonoma's upscale offerings. We could see this route becoming a staple, perhaps even year-round if bookings exceed expectations."
For those planning trips, tickets for the new flights went on sale this week through Alaska Airlines' website and app, with introductory fares starting as low as $99 one-way. Mileage Plan members can earn and redeem miles on the route, and partnerships with hotels and tour operators in both destinations are in the works to offer bundled packages. Imagine a "Desert to Vineyard" itinerary: start with poolside lounging in Palm Springs, then fly north for a private winery tour and hot air balloon ride over the vines.
As California continues to recover and innovate in tourism, this new connection underscores the state's diverse appeal—from arid deserts to verdant valleys. It's a reminder that sometimes the best adventures are just a short flight away. Whether you're a wine aficionado chasing the perfect vintage or simply looking for a change of scenery, Alaska Airlines' Palm Springs to Santa Rosa service is poised to become a favorite among West Coast wanderers.
In terms of practical details, the flight schedule includes a morning departure from PSP at 8:00 a.m., arriving in STS by 10:00 a.m., with a return flight leaving Santa Rosa at 11:30 a.m. and landing back in Palm Springs by 1:30 p.m. This timing allows for day trips or extended weekends without missing much work. During shoulder seasons, the frequency might adjust to three to five days a week, but Alaska has indicated flexibility based on performance.
Local businesses in both areas are gearing up for the influx. In Palm Springs, hotels like the Ace Hotel and Kimpton Rowan are promoting packages that include flight credits, while Sonoma's wineries, such as Kendall-Jackson and Francis Ford Coppola Winery, are preparing special tastings for incoming visitors. The route also supports business travel, as Sonoma County is home to growing tech and biotech sectors, and Palm Springs hosts conferences and corporate retreats.
Environmental considerations are front and center, with Alaska Airlines committing to offset carbon emissions for the route through partnerships with organizations like The Nature Conservancy. This aligns with Sonoma County's strong focus on sustainable viticulture, where many wineries practice organic and biodynamic farming.
Overall, this new flight isn't just about transportation—it's about fostering connections between two vibrant communities. As one local Palm Springs resident put it, "I've always dreamed of zipping up to wine country without the traffic on I-5. Now, it's a reality." With the launch just months away, anticipation is building, and the skies between the desert and the vines are about to get a lot busier. (Word count: 1,248)
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