JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – SkyWest and United Airlines faced backlash after announcing their early morning flights out of the Jamestown Regional Airport were being pushed back to later in the day.

In March, it was announced that SkyWest flights would change from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM beginning April 29th. Traveler concerns came about because fewer connecting flights would be available with a later departure time.

“Without this flight option, residents of these communities would have faced significantly longer travel times,” Senator John Hoeven announced Thursday. “That would mean decreased boardings at the local airports and the possibility of losing out on AIP grants. That’s why we made the case to SkyWest and United to restore this flight, and we welcome today’s decision.”

Senator Hoeven worked with SkyWest and United Airlines to restore the previous flight schedule. The announcement is also expected to help the local airports in Jamestown and Devils Lake meet the number of boarding required to receive Airport Improvement Program funds.