CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Flights from Charlotte Douglas Airport could be slashed after a disappointing summer season for US Airways.
Aviation expert Michael Lowrey told Channel 9 many seats from the Queen City to Europe this summer were empty.
"The numbers this summer for US Airways and American Airlines are weak," he said.
Lowrey predicts the merged airline will reduce flights to Europe in 2015 and move them to other American hubs like New York, Chicago, Miami or Dallas.
"They could make more money if they flew less flights because some of the new destinations are not making a positive contribution to their balance sheet," said Lowrey.
"It is a popular city and convention business is part of the economic base. I'm surprised to hear that," said passenger, Marc Ott.
American Airlines spokesperson Katie Cody told Channel 9 demand hasn't been that strong across the whole industry.
"We've reduced our growth plans across the Atlantic this year to match demand. We're still planning our 2015 flying, but international flying from Charlotte will always be an important part of the airline's network," said Cody.
Lowrey believes expansion at Charlotte Douglas will shift away from a focus on international business.
Airport officials want to build a new concourse where the rental cars are located. Last week, officials announced plans to borrow $100 million for projects including that concourse, which was originally supposed to be for international flights.
With Midwest destinations added this past spring, Lowrey said Charlotte Douglas will grow as a strong hub stateside.
Despite the drop in passengers on European flights, airport officials said they're seeing record passenger growth this year.
Council will discuss whether the airport can borrow the $100 million for expansion projects on Monday.
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