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Airport board hears SkyWest launch dates and staffing concerns
Summary
Airport Director Steven Gleason told the board SkyWest plans Salt Lake City service Oct. 1, 2026, and Denver service Oct. 7, 2026; staff are working to close a seven‑day gap and to resolve online job-posting wage discrepancies that list some positions at $16/hour.
Airport Director Steven Gleason told the Canyonlands Regional Airport Board that SkyWest Airlines is scheduled to begin Salt Lake City service on October 1, 2026, with Denver service anticipated to begin on October 7, 2026.
Gleason said the U.S. Department of Transportation's delayed decision compressed the implementation schedule and limited the time available for United Airlines training, creating a gap SkyWest and airport staff hope to eliminate. "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.
Board members asked about staffing and wages for the new service. Gleason said SkyWest currently plans to employ five full‑time staff and additional part‑time positions, but that online job postings listing part‑time roles at $16.00 per hour have caused concern. Rachel Paxman raised the wage‑posting issue during the meeting; Gleason said he has discussed the concern with SkyWest leadership and will continue advocating for competitive wages that reflect local cost of living.
Gleason also said online booking would become available after final approval of flight schedules and that staff will notify Board members when reservations open. He emphasized staff are reviewing airline operating agreements used in other Essential Air Service communities to inform contract terms that protect airport interests to the extent permitted under federal regulations.
