Merced’s regional airport is getting a big boost in the coming weeks.
Starting May 16, Advanced Air will begin TSA-secure operations between Merced Yosemite Airport (MCE) and main terminals at Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Advanced Air is Merced’s new Essential Air Service provider, replacing Boutique Air, serving as one of the 115 communities in the mainland United States that receives government subsidies to offer air travel.
“We are pleased to provide San Joaquin Valley residents with access to connections in main terminals in Los Angeles and Los Vegas, and provide a premium product at a discounted rate,” said Levi Stockton, President of Advanced Air, in a statement.
“This has been a long time coming.”
The airline will offer 24 weekly flights from Merced to each destination.
Advanced Air will use a 9-seat King Air 350 and an 8-seat Pilatus PC-12 to provide 12 roundtrips each to Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
Prices start at $145 for one-way trips, and the airline offers a 10-pack of tickets for $138.09 per seat.
