Cody-Chicago Route Wraps Inaugural Season as Talks Begin for 2027
Inaugural Cody-Chicago Season Carries 1,740 Passengers; CYAIR Covers Fuel-Driven MRG Shortfall and Looks Toward 2027
Cody Yellowstone Air Improvement Resources (CYAIR) today announced the results of the inaugural season of weekly nonstop United service between Yellowstone Regional Airport (YRA) and Chicago O’Hare. The season concluded with the final outbound flight on September 19.
Across 36 flights, the route carried 1,740 passengers and filled 69% of available seats. Outbound flights from Cody averaged a 78% load factor, and inbound flights averaged 60%. The August 1 outbound flight sold out completely, and outbound flights ran above 85% for most of August. More detailed numbers will be available before the end of the year.
Dusty Spomer, chairman of CYAIR remarked, “The Chicago flight was a successful step and proves Cody’s ability to handle larger planes with premium class seating and has laid the foundation for further discussions around expanding air service with other carriers.”
New air service routes can often take two to three years to mature and reach steady revenue. United has expressed interest in continuing the Cody-Chicago route and has asked to discuss the 2027 season before November. Details on premium cabin sales will be available later this fall.
The route operated under a Minimum Revenue Guarantee (MRG), a community-funded agreement that covers the airline’s shortfall if revenue falls below an agreed amount. Ticket revenue tracked in line with expectations for the MRG draw, but a sharp rise in fuel costs during the season increased the final amount owed. CYAIR has fully covered the difference and is now turning its attention to fundraising for 2027 service.
Next Steps for Air Service
Jackson Hole Airline Rendezvous, September 9-11. Aaron Buck, Executive Director of Yellowstone Regional Airport, and Michael Wambolt, Executive Director of the Park County Travel Council, attended the annual Airline Rendezvous in Jackson, where they met with representatives of United, SkyWest, Delta, and American. The event brings together airlines serving Wyoming airports and regional stakeholders to discuss industry trends and potential service expansion.
Air service consultant visit, October. The new air service consultant for CYAIR and YRA, will visit Cody in October to learn about the community and its travel needs. A public meeting will allow residents to learn more and ask questions. Date and location will be announced.
SkyWest headquarters meeting, October or November. YRA, CYAIR and the consultant are scheduled to meet with SkyWest (that works with Delta, American, United and Alaskan) at its headquarters to continue discussions about improving air service in Cody.
TakeOff Conference, early December. YRA, CYAIR and the consultant will attend the TakeOff Conference in Arkansas, which brings together small and medium-sized airports with airline network planners and economic development partners for face-to-face meetings. The TakeOff Conference is designed for initial conversations on route planning, and future development of air service.
The above announcement was provided by Cody Yellowstone Air Improvement Resources. SnowMoon Ink, LLC, which publishes Cody Journal, provides paid communications services to CYAIR.
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