Air France to Launch Two New US Routes in 2027: Why San Diego and Nashville Are Must-Visit Destinations

The summer of 2027 is set to bring fresh opportunities for French travelers. Air France has announced two new nonstop routes to the United States—San Diego and Nashville—set to launch in May 2027. Each destination will be served three times weekly with the Airbus A350-900, marking Air France as the only carrier offering direct flights between Paris and these two U.S. cities. An unmissable chance to explore lesser-known states while enjoying the airline’s legendary service.

With these new routes, Air France will increase its U.S. destinations served from Paris-Charles de Gaulle to twenty. This strategic expansion responds to growing demand among French travelers for original getaways off the beaten path of major American metropolises. Beyond tourism, these openings align with broader economic and logistical goals. San Diego and Nashville are hubs for key sectors such as advanced technologies, aerospace, and live music, creating opportunities for both business and leisure travel. Here’s what these two destinations have to offer—and why they could soon become your next American escape.

San Diego: California’s Gateway for French Travelers

Often overshadowed by Los Angeles or San Francisco in typical itineraries, San Diego is a city of many facets. With its year-round sunny climate, pristine beaches like La Jolla and Coronado, and a vibrant downtown, it appeals to both relaxation seekers and culture enthusiasts. But it’s also a city where innovation and aerospace play a central role. San Diego County boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of companies specializing in defense and aerospace, including giants like Qualcomm and General Atomics. Another reason for business travelers to prioritize this destination.

For tourists, San Diego offers a unique blend of nature and heritage. Cabrillo National Park, with its cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is a must for hikers. History buffs can explore Fort Rosecrans National Military Park, while families will be captivated by the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most renowned in the world. Not to mention the local cuisine, where fresh seafood and Mexican influences create an unforgettable culinary experience. With a direct flight from Paris, there’s no need to transit through U.S. hubs—Sand Diego is finally within easy reach.

Air France will launch its San Diego route on May 3, 2027, with flights operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Flight AF058 will depart from Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 10:10 AM, arriving in San Diego at 12:50 PM the same day. The return, operated as flight AF059, will depart San Diego at 3:10 PM and land in Paris at 11:05 AM the following day. A golden opportunity for a long weekend or an extended trip to one of California’s most beautiful regions.

Why Is San Diego a Key Destination for Air France?

San Diego represents a strategic economic market for Air France. The city is a major hub for advanced technologies, particularly in biotechnology and semiconductors. Companies like Illumina and Sempra Energy are headquartered here, attracting an international business clientele. By offering a direct route from Paris, Air France caters directly to this discerning audience while opening the door to tourists eager to discover a less touristy side of California.

Additionally, San Diego is already served by KLM from Amsterdam with three weekly flights. Air France’s entry with three additional rotations will strengthen the European offer to this destination, providing travelers with more flexibility and choice. For connecting passengers, Paris-Charles de Gaulle becomes an even more attractive hub, with seamless connections to other U.S. or European destinations.

Nashville: The New Musical and Cultural Escape in the U.S.

Known as “Music City,” Nashville is far more than just a stop on the country music trail. Located in Tennessee, the city is a cultural beacon where live music is woven into daily life. Legends like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Taylor Swift built their reputations here, and today, Nashville remains a global capital of music, with over 150 concert venues and year-round festivals. But the city is more than just country music: its historic downtown, museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame, and thriving culinary scene make it a destination in its own right.

For travelers seeking authenticity, Nashville delivers a unique experience. Neighborhoods like Germantown and The Gulch brim with restaurants, bars, and independent boutiques, while music landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry immerse visitors in the history of American music. The local food scene, featuring dishes like hot chicken and barbecue, is another compelling reason to visit. And for those craving green spaces, parks like Centennial Park and Shelby Bottoms Greenway offer a refreshing escape amid urban life.

Air France will serve Nashville starting May 14, 2027, also with three weekly flights operated by the Airbus A350-900. Flight AF046 will depart from Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 2:10 PM, arriving in Nashville at 4:40 PM the same day. The return, flight AF047, will depart Nashville at 6:55 PM and land in Paris at 10:15 AM the following day. An ideal opportunity for a short trip or to combine with visits to major U.S. cities like New York or Chicago.

Why Is Nashville Drawing International Travelers?

Nashville has become a prized destination for travelers worldwide, particularly for its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage. The city attracts millions of tourists annually to events like the CMA Fest and Bonnaroo Music Festival. For Air France, the launch of this route meets growing European demand for unconventional yet equally captivating U.S. destinations.

Nashville is already well-connected from Europe, with British Airways operating flights from London-Heathrow, Aer Lingus from Dublin, and Icelandair from Keflavík. Air France’s direct route from Paris strengthens France’s position as a European gateway to the U.S., offering travelers an alternative to major hubs like New York or Los Angeles. A chance to discover a more authentic and less crowded America.

Air France’s Airbus A350-900: Comfort for the Modern Traveler

The new routes to San Diego and Nashville will be operated with the Airbus A350-900, a aircraft renowned for its comfort, quietness, and energy efficiency. With a range of over 15,000 kilometers, this long-haul workhorse is perfectly suited for transatlantic flights, delivering a premium travel experience. The A350-900 features Airbus’s Airspace cabin, which ensures optimal pressurization, cleaner air, and reduced noise levels for a more pleasant journey.

Onboard, passengers can enjoy leather seats with 38 inches of legroom, a touchscreen entertainment system with over 2,000 hours of content, and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity. The business class cabin offers fully flat seats and meals curated by Michelin-starred chefs, while economy class delivers remarkable comfort for a long-haul flight.

For business travelers, these new routes represent a chance to save time and reduce the stress of connections. No more transiting through U.S. hubs to reach San Diego or Nashville—a single direct flight suffices. An ideal solution for professionals looking to optimize their schedules and avoid delays associated with layovers.

A Transatlantic Network in Full Expansion

With the launch of these two new routes, Air France reaffirms its commitment to expanding its transatlantic network. In 2027, the airline will offer twenty U.S. destinations from Paris-Charles de Gaulle, covering a broad swath of the American territory. This expansion aligns with a broader strategy to develop long-haul routes, with a focus on destinations underserved by other European carriers.

San Diego and Nashville join cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, which already benefit from regular service. For travelers, this means more choices, greater flexibility, and the opportunity to explore lesser-known but equally captivating U.S. states. A boon for those looking to delve deeper into America beyond its major metropolises.

How to Book Your Tickets to San Diego and Nashville

Tickets for the new routes to San Diego and Nashville will go on sale on October 14, 2026, available on Air France’s website and through partner travel agencies. With bookings opening in just a few weeks, travelers have the chance to secure the best fares for 2027 travel. With three weekly flights to each destination, flexibility is key—choose the day that best fits your schedule.

For travelers looking to combine their getaways, Air France offers advantageous multi-stop fares, allowing you to visit multiple U.S. cities in a single trip. An ideal solution for those eager to experience the diversity of the United States in one journey.

With these two new routes, Air France once again proves it is more than just an airline—it’s a true travel partner, enabling the world to be discovered differently. Whether for a business trip to San Diego or a musical escape to Nashville, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences. And with direct flights from Paris, stress-free and time-efficient travel has never been more accessible.

What You Need to Know

Air France’s new routes to San Diego and Nashville represent a game-changer for French travelers looking to explore the U.S. differently. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• San Diego: A sun-soaked coastal city perfect for beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, and innovators. Direct flights from Paris start on May 3, 2027, with three weekly rotations on the Airbus A350-900.
• Nashville: The world capital of music, where history and modernity collide. Direct flights from Paris begin on May 14, 2027, also with three weekly departures.
• Airbus A350-900: A comfortable, quiet, and eco-efficient aircraft delivering a premium travel experience.
• Booking: Tickets go on sale on October 14, 2026, offering the best fares for 2027 travel.

With these two new routes, Air France solidifies its leadership in the transatlantic market while giving French travelers the chance to discover unconventional yet equally captivating U.S. destinations.