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Williston approves $2.7 million cap to keep Delta service via SkyWest in 2026
Summary
The commission approved a minimum revenue guarantee capped at $2.7 million to SkyWest so Delta service can continue at Williston Basin International Airport in 2026; Williams County pledged up to $800,000 in regional support.
The Williston Board of City Commissioners voted Dec. 9 to approve a minimum revenue guarantee (MRG) that caps the city’s maximum exposure at $2.7 million to continue SkyWest-operated Delta Air Lines service at Williston Basin International Airport through Nov. 30, 2026.
Airport Director Anthony Dudas said SkyWest’s proposal would maintain three daily flights to Minneapolis–St. Paul and increase annual flights roughly 30% versus 2025 levels. The airline projects lower hourly operating rates and modest changes in load factor and average fare; the city’s maximum liability remains capped at $2,700,000. Williams County has committed up to $800,000, or about 30% of the proposed 2026 support.
Dudas said the added frequency has already driven passenger gains; Delta had its strongest October passenger counts since 2014 following service increases. The airport’s consultant estimated that a single CRJ-550 operating at XWA yields about $2.6 million in direct and indirect economic impact based on assumed load factors and employment metrics.
Commissioner Gjovig moved to approve the MRG; Commissioner Siemieniewski seconded and the motion carried 5-0.
The commission directed continued partnership communication among city, county and the air carrier to assess long-term sustainability, with a key decision point expected in spring 2026.
