Redmond to Los Angeles air service is full speed ahead.
American Airlines is expected to start daily service from Redmond Airport to Los Angeles International Airport in June, after local business leaders raised $350,000 during a 10-day ticket selling campaign.
Economic Development for Central Oregon officials said they crossed the $350,000 mark this afternoon, securing ticket pledges from 124 Central Oregon businesses and individuals.
They had a 5 p.m. deadline tonight to hit the mark or risk American Airlines starting the flight in another community, according to EDCO Executive Director Roger Lee.
Many details are still unclear. Most of the funds have come through ticket pledges not backed up by the money. So EDCO officials have until the end of next week to collect from the donors.
After EDCO delivers the funds, American Airlines will plan its Redmond flight, including daily departure and arrival times, Lee said. The 50-seat commuter jet is expected to leave Redmond each morning and return from L.A. in the evening.
“I’m proud of how the community reacted," Lee said. “It was across-the-board support."
