The town of Taos, New Mexico, announced that it secured $8.2 million in state funding to expand air service. Taos has a population of just under 6,500 residents and is best known as a seasonal skiing destination.
According to a news release from the town, the new funding joins $3.2 million that was awarded earlier this year for a total of $11.4 million. New Mexico’s Department of Transportation provides these grants under its Rural Air Service Enhancement program.
This funding, the town says, has opened the door for recently added JSX routes to Denver and Dallas. With the added $8.2 million, Taos is slated to get even more service.
JSX is the only carrier serving Taos Regional Airport. The semiprivate operator currently flies to Dallas Love Field and Denver-Rocky Mountain Airport from the northern New Mexico town.
Starting on Dec. 9, 2024, through March 31, 2025, the town said it will again see JSX flights to Carlsbad and Burbank, California, as well as Austin, Texas. Flights to Las Vegas will only operate in October.
“This expansion aligns with our ongoing efforts to promote economic growth and meet the demand for travel in the region,” said Taos’ chief procurement officer, Bailey Andrea, in the news release. “The additions will support the continued success of our air services program while ensuring maximum use of our grant funds with the community in mind, contributing to the broader goal of enhancing Taos as a year-round destination.”
The carrier has yet to load the flights on its website. In April, the Taos Ski Valley resort allowed its air service contract with the town to expire, ending the “Taos Air” public charter brand. Now, the town has a direct contract with JSX.
