Overall Capacity Is Up with Several Adjustments to Flight Routes
TELLURIDE/MONTROSE, Colorado (April 2, 2026) – Air service for the upcoming summer season is expanding with new routes, increased frequencies and larger aircraft, contributing to an overall rise in capacity.
United Airlines will introduce new Saturday only service between Los Angeles (LAX) and Montrose (MTJ), operating from May 23 through September 19. In addition, United’s Chicago (ORD–MTJ) route will increase to five days per week, up from two weekly flights last summer, with service running from May 21 through September 21.
“The added service from LA and Chicago this summer makes it even easier for travelers to access the region, while also giving local residents more flexibility when planning their trips,” said Matt Skinner, CEO of Colorado Flights.
United will also enhance its Houston (IAH–MTJ) service, operating daily flights from May 21 through August 10, followed by twice-weekly service from August 11 through September 23.
Core routes will remain strong, with United and Southwest continuing multiple daily flights from Denver, alongside American Airlines’ service from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). Southwest will also maintain its Saturday service from Dallas Love Field (DAL).
Capacity will see an additional boost this spring, as both American and United deploy larger mainline aircraft from DFW and Denver routes through April and May, and Southwest will operate its Denver route daily, up from five days weekly last year. This shift is expected to deliver a 20% increase in overall seat capacity in April and a 40% increase in May.
Following winter disruptions related to the strike and resort closure, Denver Air Connection will temporarily pause service to Telluride (TEX) from April 7 through May 14. Daily Denver–TEX flights resume on May 15, with Phoenix (PHX)–TEX service returning on June 18, flying Thu & Sun this summer.
With some mid-summer aircraft adjustments still ongoing, total seasonal capacity is currently projected to increase by approximately 4% compared to last year.
These enhancements underscore continued demand for regional air access and provide travelers with more options and flexibility throughout the summer season.
For full flight schedules and booking links, visit www.coloradoflights.org/summer.
-www.coloradoflights.org-