Air Choice One: A Legacy Continued Under Southern Airways Express Air Choice One, originally known as Multi-Aero, Inc., was a commuter airline based in St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1979, the airline began scheduled passenger services in 2010, primarily connecting smaller Midwestern communities to larger hubs like St. Louis and Nashville. Operating under the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, Air Choice One utilized a fleet of Cessna 208B Grand Caravans and a Beechcraft 1900C to serve routes in states such as Arkansas, Missouri, and Tennessee. Acquisition by Southern Airways Express In March 2022, Southern Airways Express, one of the largest commuter airlines in the United States, announced the acquisition of Air Choice One. This strategic move aimed to bolster Southern's EAS offerings, especially in light of other regional carriers reducing their EAS commitments. The acquisition expanded Southern's fleet to nearly 50 aircraft and increased its pilot pipeline to major carriers. Notably, Air Choice One's CEO, Shane Storz, joined Southern as Executive Vice President, bringing along a seasoned leadership team to support the integration. Transition and Integration Following the acquisition, Air Choice One's services were rebranded under the Southern Airways Express banner by mid-2022. While the Air Choice One brand was retired, its operating certificate remained active, allowing for a seamless transition of service. Passengers from former Air Choice One destinations, such as Jonesboro, Arkansas, benefited from Southern's interline agreements with major airlines like American, United, and Alaska. These partnerships facilitated smoother connections and baggage transfers for travelers. Continued Commitment to Regional Connectivity The integration of Air Choice One into Southern Airways Express underscores a shared commitment to providing reliable air service to underserved communities. By combining resources and expertise, the unified airline continues to enhance regional connectivity across the United States.