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CommuteAir is a regional airline based in Westlake, Ohio, operating flights exclusively for United Airlines under the United Express brand. Founded in 1989 as a Part 135 operator in Plattsburgh, New York, by John Arthur Sullivan under the parent company Champlain Enterprises, the airline has grown from operating Beech 1900 turboprops to becoming United Airlines' exclusive Embraer ERJ-145 operator.

Important: CommuteAir does not sell tickets directly to passengers. The airline operates all flights under a capacity purchase agreement with United Airlines. When you book a United Express flight operated by CommuteAir, you purchase your ticket through United Airlines. The flight carries a United flight number, even though the aircraft and crew belong to CommuteAir.

United Airlines acquired a 40% ownership stake in CommuteAir in 2016, strengthening the partnership. The airline legally changed its name from "CommutAir" to "CommuteAir" in July 2022. Today, CommuteAir operates over 1,600 weekly flights to more than 75 U.S. destinations and 3 destinations in Mexico, with approximately 1,200 employees. The airline extended its contract with United through 2028 to continue providing 50-seat regional jet service.

CommuteAir does not set baggage policies. All baggage rules, fees, and allowances are determined by United Airlines.

Carry-On Considerations

Regional aircraft have smaller overhead bins than mainline jets. Even if your bag meets United's carry-on size limits, you may be asked to gate-check it at no charge.

Gate-check process:

1. Bring your carry-on to the gate as normal
2. If gate-checking is required, staff will tag your bag
3. Retrieve the bag at your destination at the jet bridge door (not baggage claim)
4. Fragile items and valuables should be removed before gate-checking

Tip: A personal item that fits under the seat is guaranteed cabin space. Consider packing essentials in your personal item in case your carry-on is gate-checked.

Checked Baggage

Contact United Airlines for current baggage fees and policies:

Information	Link
United Baggage Policy	united.com/baggage
Baggage Calculator	united.com/checked-bag-fee-calculator

Special Items on Regional Aircraft

Regional jets have limited cargo hold space. Oversized items (golf clubs, skis, musical instruments) may not fit and could be sent on a later flight. When checking sports equipment:

• Notify the gate agent at boarding
• Arrive early to ensure space is available
• Consider shipping ahead for essential items

Cabin Configuration

ERJ-145 Economy:

• 1-2 seating configuration throughout (single seat on left, pair on right)
• 31 inch seat pitch
• 17-18 inch seat width
• Limited recline
• No First Class cabin

Entertainment

• No seat-back screens on CommuteAir aircraft
• WiFi: Not available on ERJ-145 aircraft
• Power outlets: Limited availability
• Streaming: United app content not available without WiFi

Recommendation: Download movies, shows, and music before your flight. Ensure your device is fully charged.

Food & Beverage

Service depends on flight length:

• Short flights (under 90 min): Complimentary beverages only
• Longer flights: Complimentary beverages and snacks
• Buy-on-board: Generally not available on regional flights

Seat Selection

Seat selection is handled through United Airlines:

• Book and select seats on united.com or the United app
• MileagePlus elite status seat benefits apply
• Economy Plus not available on ERJ-145 (all seats are economy class)

ERJ-145 seating tips:

• Row 1 has the most legroom but no under-seat storage
• Single seats on the left side (A seats) offer more privacy
• Avoid rear rows near the lavatory for quieter flights

Booking

• Can't find availability? Regional routes often have limited frequency—check alternate dates
• Connecting flights: Allow extra time (60-90 min minimum) when connecting to/from regional flights
• Same ticket: Always book regional connections on the same ticket as your mainline flight for protection during delays
• EWR connections: CommuteAir feeds United's Newark hub—strong East Coast regional network

At the Airport

• Arrive early: Regional check-in lines can be longer at hub airports
• Gate location: Regional gates are sometimes farther from the main terminal—check walking time
• Board early: Overhead bin space fills quickly; board in your assigned group
• Gate-check valuables: Remove electronics, medications, and essential items before gate-checking bags

During the Flight

• Bring entertainment: Download content before your trip; WiFi is not available on ERJ-145
• Charge devices: Power availability is limited; arrive with a full battery
• Dress in layers: Regional aircraft cabins can be warmer or cooler than mainline jets
• Single seats: If traveling solo, request an A seat (left side) for more privacy

For Nervous Flyers

• Regional jets are certified to the same safety standards as larger aircraft
• CommuteAir maintains FAA-certified safety standards
• Turbulence feels more pronounced on smaller aircraft but is equally safe
• Crew members are fully trained by CommuteAir and certified by the FAA

Understanding Flight Numbers

United Express regional indicators:

• Flight numbers 3000-6999 often indicate regional aircraft
• Check "Operated by" in flight details to confirm CommuteAir operation

History & Name

• Founded as "CommutAir" in 1989 in Plattsburgh, NY
• Parent company: Champlain Enterprises (majority owner)
• United Airlines: 40% owner since 2016
• Legal name changed to "CommuteAir" in July 2022
• You may still see "CommutAir" on some older documentation