Contour Airlines Expands Into Indianapolis

Tennessee-based Contour Airlines is expanding its operations into Indianapolis, with plans to open a new base, grow its domestic network, and bring over 50 jobs to the airport.

What is Contour Airlines?

Contour is a small, regional airline based out of Smyrna, Tennessee. The carrier currently operates ERJ-135 aircraft to 18 destinations across the United States (Indianapolis will make it 19). All of the planes sport a 2×2 configuration with leather seats and extra legroom, and each flight offers complimentary snacks and beverages, as well as a free checked bag. The airline has had a rapid expansion since 2018, growing its network from four to 19 cities, with Indianapolis as its latest addition.

New Base

Announced at the 2020 Routes Americas conference on Wednesday, the airline will begin service to Indianapolis from three U.S. cities, Nashville, St. Louis, and Pittsburg, starting June 10th. Furthermore, two planes in the carrier’s ERJ fleet will be kept at the new aircraft base in Indy, and hiring for pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, and ground personnel will begin immediately. The new routes will operate daily and cost between $99 and $149 each way.

Executive Director of the Indianapolis Airport, Mario Rodriguez, said, “Contour’s investment is a win-win all the way around. Travelers have been demanding drive-market destinations, and we’ve been working for years to bring these to Indy and expand both business and leisure nonstop connectivity regionally. Jobs, a new record-breaking number of nonstop flights, and further proof you can get there from here! That’s a win for everybody.”

Contour’s CEO, Matt Chaifetz, explained, “Indiana is a natural fit for Contour Airline’s growth. We look forward to employing Hoosiers and bringing Indy travelers nonstop service to key business and leisure markets.”