SkyWest to start October flights; board presses carrier on local wages

Airport Director Steven Gleason told the Canyonlands Regional Airport Board on July 6 that SkyWest is scheduled to begin Salt Lake City service on October 1, 2026, with Denver service anticipated to begin on October 7, 2026. Gleason said staff are working with SkyWest to eliminate a seven-day gap between the two routes that arose after a delayed U.S. Department of Transportation decision compressed the startup schedule.

Gleason said SkyWest currently plans to employ five full‑time staff members, with additional part‑time positions. The board and staff raised concerns after online job postings listed part-time positions beginning at "$16.00 per hour," which board member Rachel Paxman flagged as low for Moab's cost of living. Gleason said he has discussed the wage concerns with SkyWest leadership and will continue advocating for pay that reflects local conditions and commitments made during airline selection. "SkyWest is scheduled to begin Salt Lake City service on October 1, 2026, with Denver service anticipated to begin on October 7, 2026," Gleason told the board.

Board members discussed seasonal scheduling and possible adjustments based on passenger demand after service begins. Gleason said online booking will open after the flight schedule receives final approval and pledged to notify board members when reservations become available. He also said staff are reviewing airline operating agreements from other Essential Air Service communities to develop a contract that protects airport operational interests to the extent permitted by federal rules.