LEWISTON, ID – The Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport says after months of negotiations, United Airlines will no longer provide service to Denver International from Lewiston as of January 31st. LWS officials have reportedly been working closely with the airline and its sponsors to devise a solution to keep the service in place.
“Unfortunately, the airport owners, the City of Lewiston, and Nez Perce County were unable to allocate or commit the funds required to keep up with today’s demands of Minimum Revenue Guarantees for communities our size trying to maintain or grow air service,” a press release says.
From LWS:
United Airlines was attracted in 2021 using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds through Nez Perce County and subsequent general surplus funding from the City of Lewiston through a Minimum Revenue Guarantee.
Officials worked tirelessly to find funding. “We thank United Airlines, Nez Perce County, and the City of Lewiston for trying this route during challenging economic times in the air transportation industry.” said airport director Mike Isaacs. Isaacs continued, “Service to Salt Lake City, UT, and Seattle, Washington, will continue through Delta Airlines, a long-standing business in the region. Air service is a critical infrastructure that is essential for economic growth. The Airport Authority Board will continue to search for new service opportunities.”
About the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport
LWS is a public-use airport two miles south of Lewiston, Idaho. The City of Lewiston and Nez Perce County own the airport. The airport prides itself on dependability. “Fly LWS when it matters the most.”