06.20.14

Hoeven Praises Return of Commercial Air Service to Jamestown, Devils Lake

JAMESTOWN, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today praised the restoration of commercial jet service to Jamestown Regional Airport and Devils Lake Regional Airport. Hoeven, who had planned to attend the Jamestown ceremony, was delayed on his way back from Washington and had staff represent him at ceremonies held in Jamestown and Devils Lake to mark the return of servi

“SkyWest’s decision to add new flights in and out of Jamestown and Devils Lake stands as great news for these communities. Reliable jet service is important to the business community, the tourism industry and to the occasional traveler,” said Hoeven. “Airports across North Dakota have seen increased demands and record boardings which is why we are glad to see expanded service at these airports to meet the needs of our people and growing economy.”

Utah-based SkyWest Airlines launched flights to and from Denver earlier this month after Wyoming-based Great Lakes Airlines discontinued service to Jamestown and Devils Lake earlier this year. The company said it encountered problems in retaining pilots under new federal rules governing pilot qualifications that took effect last August.

SkyWest will provide service under the FAA’s EAS program overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Hoeven has played an instrumental role working with federal, state and local partners to secure this EAS contract needed to resume commercial service in Jamestown and Devils Lake.

When Great Lakes announced its decision to end EAS service, Hoeven worked to coordinate the efforts of an EAS working group that included representatives from Jamestown, Devils Lake, North Dakota Aeronautics and the Governor’s Office. The senator also arranged conference calls with SkyWest executives, FAA, EAS and DOT officials, in addition to writing to and meeting with DOT, to ensure that local community concerns were given appropriate consideration.