United Express to Operate New Flight from Chicago to Pellston

CHICAGO- United Express, the regional subsidiary of United Airlines (UA), in partnership with Utah-based regional carrier SkyWest Airlines (OO), is set to enhance air connectivity to Northern Michigan with a new flight route connecting Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Pellston Regional Airport (PLN).

According to FlightRadar24, the Pellston Airport is well connected to Detroit (DTW) and has 25 weekly flights. Delta Connection, the regional subsidiary of Delta Air Lines (DL) is the leading operator of PLN.

Photo: By Richard Silagi – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=76300183

United Chicago to Pellston Flight

SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Express, has submitted a proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation to continue providing Essential Air Service (EAS) to Pellston, Michigan, Ishrion Aviation reported.

The proposal, dated August 29, 2024, outlines plans for year-round service between Pellston and two major hubs: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).

Key points of the proposal include:

1. Subsidized Service: From October through May, SkyWest will offer 12 weekly round-trip flights, subsidized under the EAS program.
2. Unsubsidized Summer Operations: In a notable development, SkyWest plans to operate unsubsidized service from June through September, with 12 or more weekly round-trip flights.
3. Aircraft: Flights to DTW will utilize CRJ200/550/700/900 aircraft, branded as Delta Connection. The ORD route will be serviced by CRJ200 aircraft under the United Express brand.
4. Four-Year Commitment: The proposal outlines a four-year term for this service arrangement.

Daniel Belmont, Director of Market Development at SkyWest Airlines, emphasized the company’s commitment to the Pellston community, stating,

“Our combination of safe and reliable aircraft, well-timed schedules, and access to two of the world’s largest airline networks will continue to provide passengers with quality air service and further stimulate economic growth in the region.”

Photo: Pellston Regional Airport

About Pellston Regional Airport

Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) stands out as a gateway to Northern Michigan’s premier destinations. The airport, owned and operated by Emmet County, provides essential air connectivity to the region.

Delta Air Lines maintains daily commercial flights connecting PLN to Detroit’s Wayne County Metro Airport, facilitating travel for tens of thousands of passengers annually. This vital link supports both leisure and business travel to the area.

The airport’s 2003 reconstruction transformed its main terminal into a Northern lodge-themed space. Town + Country Cedar Homes led the design, while Heartwood Mills Cedar Products supplied materials and craftsmanship. The result is an award-winning terminal that evokes the warmth of a northwoods log home, creating an inviting atmosphere for travelers.

PLN’s strategic location puts visitors within easy reach of the Midwest’s premier attractions. Golf courses, snow-sport facilities, world-class spas, upscale shopping, and fine dining establishments are all accessible. The area also boasts numerous historical sites and cultural attractions, enhancing its appeal to diverse travelers.

The airport offers a range of amenities to enhance the travel experience. These include

• free parking,
• overnight, and long-term stays,
• covered boarding bridges, and
• an observation deck.

Ground transportation options are available, and the terminal features free Wi-Fi and workstations for business travelers.

For dining needs, the airport houses a restaurant and bar. A conference room on the upper level of the main terminal is available for public use at no charge, supporting business meetings and events.

PLN prioritizes connectivity, providing both wireless and wired Internet access throughout the building.

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