United to discontinue Monterey-Denver service

The Monterey Regional Airport announced Monday that United Airlines will discontinue its scheduled service from Monterey to Denver effective June 5. United is adjusting its summer flight schedules nationwide to accommodate the national pilot shortage and changes in Federal Aviation Regulations that affect aircrew flight time and rest requirements, airport officials said in a press release.

“We are deeply disappointed with United’s decision and sad to lose this service,” said Tom Greer, airport general manager. “This announcement took us by surprise.”

United began flying from Monterey to Denver on June 5, 2005. Its average load factor for the 12 months ending February 2014 was 82%. Though respectable, it was less than the 90% average on competing routes flown by United from Denver.

Customers with reservations after June 5 can contact United directly at (800) 241-6522 for rescheduling. United will continue to offer non-stop service from Monterey to Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Airport officials said they continue to work to expand air service to other cities. The airport now offers daily nonstop flights to Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Diego and San Francisco.

Source:   http://www.thecalifornian.com