Air Wisconsin to Cut Up to 513 Jobs as American Airlines Partnership Ends

APPLETON, Wis. (Civic Media) — Air Wisconsin Airlines announced potential layoffs for 513 employees in Wisconsin following the termination of an agreement with American Airlines.

The regional carrier, based in Appleton, expects to cut 219 management and salaried positions, along with 294 union jobs. The layoffs could begin as early as March 31, impacting operations at Appleton International Airport and General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee.

Air Wisconsin cited a “strategic shift” in operations as the reason for the workforce reductions. The company says they are currently exploring alternative flying opportunities, with announcements expected in the coming weeks.

While the layoffs for unionized employees are said to be temporary, management and salaried position cuts are likely permanent.

Air Wisconsin emphasized in their letter to the state, that the full extent of the reductions is still unclear, as the company continues to develop its future strategy.