Local News

RDM Prepares For Larger Jet

REDMOND, OR -- Alaska Airlines will soon start flying a Boeing 737 into Redmond. Airport Director Zach Bass calls the move historic, "This is the first 737 daily service that Redmond’s ever had. We did used to have some MD-80s that are about the same size, that Allegiant used to fly; but those were not daily." The plane can seat 147 passengers: 117 in Coach, 12 in First Class and another 30 in Premium Class.

 

Redmond Airport Director Zach Bass says it’s a sign of the region’s growth in popularity. "The Central Oregon Air Service Team (COAST), and the airport are always looking to increase frequency and size of our planes for every destination that we have, so we’re continually asking of course for something like this. Now, we did not specifically ask for this jet this time, so that’s where Alaska Airlines’ business decision came into play." And, he tells KBND News, there was a lot of advanced preparation, "We had to ensure that all of our pavement strengths and ramp strengths were compatible with this aircraft, which it is. We also had to make sure that fueling for that size was available, the ramps – because they still will be ground loaded – all that was available, and then we just mostly had to work with Alaska Airlines to ensure that their staff are well aware of how to operate this aircraft here; and of course, the maintenance piece that might take place if something does occur here."
 
Beginning July sixth, the new 737-800 will fly one of Alaska’s five daily flights between Sea-Tac and Roberts Field, arriving in Redmond at 1:40 p.m. and departing at 2:35 p.m. Alaska says the 737-800 is focused on fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, with leather seats, large overhead bins and seatback outlets.

On Air Now

George Noorey
George Noorey
10:00pm - 12:00am
Coast to Coast

FlashAlert

KBND ON FACEBOOK

News Disclaimers