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NewsNoticias Tampa Bay (Univision)July 31, 2026Hillsborough

U.S. Department of Transportation to Decide Imperial County's Airline Contract

The U.S. Department of Transportation is currently reviewing proposals to determine which airline will operate subsidized commercial flights at the Imperial County Airport. The Imperial County Board of Supervisors has recommended Advanced Air for the contract, while the current provider, Southern Airways, is seeking to retain the service.

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Why It Matters

The federal decision will determine which airline provides essential air travel services for Imperial County residents, impacting flight reliability and connectivity to major hubs like Los Angeles and Phoenix.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) holds the final authority to award the Essential Air Service (EAS) contract for Imperial County.
  • The Imperial County Board of Supervisors has formally recommended Advanced Air as the preferred operator.
  • Southern Airways is the current operator and is actively lobbying to retain the contract.
  • Southern Airways cites previous investments and existing flight connections to Los Angeles and Phoenix as reasons to maintain the contract.
  • Local residents and authorities have reported concerns regarding flight cancellations and service reliability under the current operator.
  • The EAS program provides federal subsidies to ensure commercial air service to smaller communities.

Who's Mentioned

organizationU.S. Department of Transportation“The federal agency responsible for awarding the Essential Air Service contract.”organizationAdvanced Air“The airline recommended by the County Board of Supervisors to operate the servic”organizationImperial County Board of Supervisors“The local governing body that recommended Advanced Air for the contract.”organizationSouthern Airways“The current airline operator seeking to retain the contract.”locationImperial County Airport“The facility where the Essential Air Service program operates.”