Pensacola International Airport continues expanding its regional reach with the addition of seasonal nonstop flights to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, giving Gulf Coast travelers new options and bringing Midwestern visitors directly to Northwest Florida’s beaches.
New Route Launches This Spring
Starting May 6, Contour Airlines will operate twice-weekly nonstop service between Pensacola (PNS) and Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI). Flights will run on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the peak spring and summer travel season, providing convenient connectivity between Southeast Missouri and the Gulf Coast.
- The new route represents Contour Airlines’ continued investment in Pensacola, joining the carrier’s returning seasonal service to Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Both routes demonstrate the airport’s growing importance as a regional hub connecting smaller markets throughout the Southeast and Midwest.
“We’re thrilled to continue expanding service to Pensacola and to make nonstop travel to the Gulf Coast accessible for Cape Girardeau residents,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “Whether traveling for a beach getaway or business, passengers can enjoy a stress-free experience without having to drive to a larger airport.”
Regional Connectivity Benefits Both Markets
The service creates opportunities for travelers on both ends of the route. Pensacola-area residents gain direct access to Southeast Missouri. At the same time, Cape Girardeau travelers can reach Northwest Florida’s beaches, attractions, and business centers without connecting through major hubs like Atlanta or Dallas.
- Matt Coughlin, Executive Director of Pensacola International Airport, emphasized the economic implications. “New nonstop service like this reflects the continued demand for convenient regional connectivity to and from Pensacola,” Coughlin said. “This route not only gives Pensacola-area passengers an easy way to reach Cape Girardeau, but it also welcomes travelers from Southeast Missouri directly to the Gulf Coast—supporting tourism, business travel, and our local economy.”
The seasonal timing targets peak travel months when demand for beach vacations runs highest and when Pensacola’s tourism industry benefits most from direct access to additional markets.
What Travelers Can Expect
Contour Airlines will operate the route using 30-seat regional jets equipped with passenger-friendly amenities. Aircraft feature leather seating with expanded legroom—a welcome upgrade from typical regional configurations. All passengers receive complimentary snacks and beverages, plus one free checked bag with every fare, eliminating standard budget airline fees.
The twice-weekly schedule provides weekend and mid-week options, accommodating both leisure travelers seeking extended beach vacations and business travelers needing flexible scheduling.
For Pensacola’s tourism sector, the new route opens direct marketing opportunities for Missouri travelers who previously had to connect or drive for hours to reach Gulf Coast destinations. Local hotels, restaurants, and attractions stand to benefit from increased accessibility to Midwest markets.
Flight Schedule:
-
Cape Girardeau (CGI) ? Pensacola (PNS)
Departure: 8:45 a.m. | Arrival: 10:30 a.m.
Operates Wednesdays & Saturdays -
Pensacola (PNS) ? Cape Girardeau (CGI)
Departure: 11:10 a.m. | Arrival: 12:55 p.m.
Operates Wednesdays & Saturdays
About Contour
Contour Airlines offers a premium airline product that includes a complimentary first checked bag and snack and beverage service on all domestic flights. Contour operates a growing fleet of regional jets featuring leather seating with expanded legroom in every row. Tickets are available for purchase on Contour’s website at contourairlines.com, by calling the Contour call center at (888) 332-6686, and through local and online travel agencies. Travelers can also book seamless connections with Contour’s interline partners; Alaska, American, and United Airlines.