Sun Country Airlines Launches New Base at CVG for Cargo Growth

Sun Country Airlines has announced the opening of a new operational base at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), set to commence on January 31, 2026. This development marks a significant expansion for the low-cost carrier, which aims to enhance its cargo operations and extend its reach beyond its primary hub in Minneapolis-St. Paul.

The decision to establish a base at CVG is driven by several key factors, including the airport’s role as a major hub for Amazon and its rapidly growing cargo market. Sun Country highlighted the strong regional passenger demand at CVG as another significant consideration in their strategic planning. By stationing cargo aircraft and local crews at the facility, the airline aims to improve operational efficiency and reliability, while also providing opportunities for local employment.

Strategic Expansion and Operational Efficiency

In a statement regarding the announcement, Jude Bricker, Chief Executive Officer of Sun Country Airlines, emphasized the importance of the cargo segment to the airline’s business model. He stated, “Amazon and our cargo operation is a critical segment of our differentiated business model and enables our scheduled service seasonal flexibility and growth. We are pleased to open this base, which will support our service and efficiency across our operation. Moreover, this offers new opportunities for advancement for our pilots.”

The establishment of the CVG base is not merely a network expansion; it represents a strategic move that enhances Sun Country’s hybrid model of scheduled leisure services, charter flights, and cargo operations. This new base will serve as the primary station for the airline’s cargo aircraft, enabling crews to begin and end their duties at the same location. This change will effectively reduce deadhead travel and bolster day-to-day operational reliability.

Sun Country plans to utilize shared facilities at CVG rather than constructing a standalone footprint, facilitating a quicker operational startup. In preparation for this expansion, the airline is actively recruiting pilots in the Cincinnati area, aiming to strengthen its workforce and improve service delivery.

Enhancing Cargo Services and Local Demand

For cargo customers, particularly Amazon, the new base at CVG is expected to enhance delivery reliability. The operational structure will minimize last-minute positioning flights and reduce deadhead travel, allowing for greater flexibility among dispatchers. This adjustment is likely to lead to improved on-time performance and faster recovery after disruptions, such as adverse weather conditions.

By establishing a base in Cincinnati, Sun Country is positioning itself to respond more effectively to peak volume demands from this crucial logistics hub. Additionally, the airline’s expansion plans may include further base locations, which would enhance both cargo capabilities and operational resilience moving forward.

As local demand in the Cincinnati area continues to grow, Sun Country Airlines is well-positioned to expand its scheduled service offerings over time. The decision to develop a base at CVG represents a significant investment in the airline’s future, paving the way for increased operational capacity and improved service quality in the competitive air cargo market.