DOT selects SkyWest to extend EAS contract, continuing service to Jamestown and Devils Lake

Jul. 3—BISMARCK — The U.S. Department of Transportation has selected SkyWest Airlines Inc. to continue to provide essential air service at the Devils Lake and Jamestown airports for a three-year term from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027, according to Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D.

Hoeven announced that SkyWest will provide each community with 12 round trips per week to Denver International Airport using 50-seat Canadair Regional Jet 200 aircraft. Hoeven

previously worked

with the North Dakota delegation to prevent disruption in air service to these communities, while also working to improve the availability of connecting flights in Denver.

"This is great news for Jamestown and Devils Lake, as air service demand in North Dakota continues to grow, including in these areas," Hoeven said. "It's vital that these communities and the surrounding areas have access to continued, reliable commercial air service in order to allow for economic growth and opportunities in the region and to meet the needs of the traveling public."

"SkyWest has been a great partner to the Jamestown Region for commercial air service," said Katie Hemmer, director of Jamestown Regional Airport. "We are very happy to solidify their partnership for three more years, and we look forward to setting new passenger boarding records."

Jamestown Regional Airport currently offers direct flights to and from Denver on United Airlines, which is operated by SkyWest Airlines.

Scott Cruse, director of the Devils Lake Regional Airport, said Devils Lake is "extremely excited" to have an EAS provider in place again.

"It's been a long road since the pilot shortage forced SkyWest to make some pretty hard decisions regarding EAS airports," Cruse said. "We are thankful for all the efforts put forth from our state leadership, the Department of Transportation, SkyWest Airlines and our communities in order to achieve this outcome. We can now look forward to continuing reliable and quality air service for our communities. A big thank you to all who had a hand in this."

Kyle Wanner, executive director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission, said the commission appreciated the collaboration with the state's congressional delegation and federal partners to ensure the program continues to support the citizens within the state's rural communities.

"North Dakotans place great value on the ability to access the world's air transportation network, which enhances the quality of life and fosters business and economic growth," he said.

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