SkyWest Ends Delta Flights From Williston To Minneapolis

The City of Williston announced that Delta Connection flights between Williston and Minneapolis-St. Paul will end Sept. 7, 2026.

The service, operated by SkyWest Airlines for Delta Air Lines, has connected the region to Delta’s global network since 2012, when flights first began at the former Sloulin Field International Airport.

City officials said passengers with existing bookings will be contacted by the airline with options. The route’s closure follows fluctuations in travel demand, including impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, when service was temporarily suspended before returning in 2021 through regional partnerships.

Williston Basin International Airport will continue to offer daily United Airlines service to Denver through United Express, also operated by SkyWest. Local leaders say they will continue working with airline partners to maintain and expand air service in western North Dakota and eastern Montana.

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Read the press release in its entirety:

The City of Williston has been notified that Delta Connection flights, operated by SkyWest Airlines, between Williston and Minneapolis/St. Paul will conclude on September 7, 2026. Passengers whose travel plans may be affected will be contacted directly by the airline regarding available options.

Delta first began serving the Williston community on November 12, 2012, at the former Sloulin Field International Airport. Over the past 14 years, the service has provided residents, businesses, and visitors with access to destinations throughout the United States and around the world through Delta’s global network.

“While we are disappointed to see Delta service leave our market, we are grateful for the partnership we have shared with Delta and SkyWest over the years,” said City Administrator Shawn Wenko. “Over the past decade, the City, our regional partners, and our neighboring counties have made significant investments to support commercial air service in northwest North Dakota. Those efforts included major investments in airport facilities and equipment, as well as regional partnerships to provide Minimum Revenue Guarantees designed to help sustain and grow service. While today's announcement is disappointing given that commitment, we respect Delta and SkyWest's business decision and remain focused on ensuring our community continues to have strong, reliable commercial air service for years to come.”

Like many communities across the country, Williston experienced significant impacts to air travel demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delta service was temporarily suspended in 2020 and later returned in 2021 through a collaborative effort between the City of Williston, Williams County, McKenzie County, and SkyWest Airlines.

“We recognize that this news may be disappointing for many travelers who have relied on Delta service over the years,” said Airport Director Ryan O’Rear. “Air service decisions are ultimately driven by market performance, and demand on that route has not consistently reached the levels necessary to sustain service. We remain confident in the long-term strength of our

market and the vital role air service plays in our region. Our team will continue working diligently to support existing service and pursue opportunities that meet the needs of our community.”

Williston Basin International Airport will continue to offer multiple daily United Express departures to Denver. United service at XWA is operated by SkyWest and provides connections to United’s global route network. The airport remains committed to maintaining strong air service options for the region and continues to actively engage with airline partners and industry stakeholders regarding future opportunities to enhance connectivity for western North Dakota and eastern Montana.