SkyWest returns to Kearney Airport amid regional high travel costs

Kearney, Neb — The Kearney regional airport is reinstating SkyWest with United as their air service provider.

Kearney’s airport director stated that they don’t yet know how prices will be affected by the change, but that there won’t be many noticeable changes in the experience for travelers.

“The schedules are similar, the route is similar, and the route hasn’t changed as far as a destination route to Denver, ” said Kearney airport director JimLynaugh.

The upcoming change comes amid high travel fees for Kearney. According to data from the Bureau of Transportation statistics, Kearney tends to be one of the most expensive airports in the region, and averaged around $630 in fares for the second quarter of 2024, the highest of all Nebraska airports. There has also been a decrease in passengers over the last several years, after peaking in 2021. While it’s hard to say if these trends can be reversed, the airport director says they’re ready for SkyWest to return.

“I think everything is on track and I think we’re in good shape.”

The Kearney Regional Airport currently uses Denver Air Connection with Key Lime Air and will continue to do so until November 1st.