Oregon Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said Tuesday the Redmond Airport has earned an $800,000 federal grant to recruit, initiate and support new air service to Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport.
“Expanded air links for the Redmond Airport strengthen the Central Oregon economy by adding options for visitors attracted by the region’s world-class recreation, and make it easier for local families wanting to connect with loved ones,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified that Redmond has secured this federal support, and will continue working to ensure the airport builds on its role as an essential infrastructure asset for the entire region.”
Redmond Airport Director Zach Bass said service to Dallas isn’t a done deal, but the grant money certainly helps move the process along with American Airlines.
“It plays a big part,” Bass said of the grant.
To help secure the grant, American Airlines actually wrote a letter of support for RDM, Bass said.
The next step will be to reconnect with American Airlines to see if it’s still interested in launching the service.
Bass said Spring 2022 would be the earliest any new flights would be added.
“The Airport is excited to be able to offer all our businesses and customers a new destination,” Bass said. “We know there is a strong link between Dallas and Central Oregon.”
The U.S. Department of Transportation said the $800,000 grant from its Small Community Air Service Development Program will support a revenue guarantee to help attract the new service.
