DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG) – Daily commercial flights between Dubuque Regional Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport are scheduled to begin November 4.

The 50-seat jet, provided by Denver Air Connection, will depart O’Hare around noon, arrive in Dubuque and return to Chicago in the afternoon. Single tickets cost $121.50 on the regional airline’s website.

“One flight is just the beginning,” said Molly Grover, president and CEO of the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, explaining that one of the city’s priorities is to provide long-term, sustainable air service to several major hubs.

Finding providers interested in investing in Dubuque is a critical step in achieving the city’s goal.

Jon Coleman, senior vice president of corporate strategy at Denver Air Connection, says the airline is taking a conservative approach to growth.

“We only enter into deals where we are confident we can deliver on our promise,” Coleman explained. “If Denver Air didn’t know with 100 percent certainty that we could operate these flights, we simply wouldn’t do it.”

Connecting to a major hub also helps Dubuque businesses attract workers.

“Talents expect to have air service where they live, work and play,” Grover said. “It’s a convenience that has become a must-have when choosing where to live and pursue a career.”

On November 4, Dubuque Regional Airport will host its first regular flight since Avelo Airlines ceased operations in April.

A $2 million Small Community Air Service Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation helped community leaders secure the service. The grant consists of $1.5 million in federal funds and $500,000 in matching funds from state and local agencies.

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