Air Bahia

Air Bahia was a commuter airline based in Southern California that operated between 1969 and 1979. Founded by Roy Schmidt, it primarily served routes connecting San Diego with smaller communities throughout Southern California and Baja California, Mexico. The airline's name, "Bahia," is Spanish for "bay," a reference to San Diego Bay.

Air Bahia operated a fleet primarily consisting of turboprop aircraft, most notably the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. Its route network focused on providing convenient and affordable air travel to destinations like Carlsbad, Oceanside, El Centro, Palm Springs, and Ensenada.

The airline was known for its reliable service and its role in connecting Southern California's more remote communities to larger metropolitan areas. Despite its success and popularity during its operational period, Air Bahia ultimately ceased operations in 1979 due to economic factors.