Southern Airways Seeks to Continue Service at Imperial County Airport Amid Competition
Southern Airways has made a formal presentation to the Imperial County Board of Supervisors, advocating for its continued operation at the Imperial County airport. As part of the Essential Air Service Program (EAS), Southern Airways is subsidized by the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide air service to small communities that might otherwise lack scheduled flights. The airline currently offers flights to Phoenix and Los Angeles using Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft, supporting business, medical, and government travel. Southern Airways, the largest commuter airline in the U.S., has interline agreements with major airlines like American, United, and Alaska, and is accessible through major travel websites. The company has reported a 99% completion rate for flights in recent months and has contributed significantly to the local economy, including $1.45 million in local wages in 2025. The county board is also considering proposals from other airlines, including Boutique Air, Contour Airlines, and SkyWest... 
