Although Salem is the second-largest city in Oregon and the Oregon state capital as well, there has been no commercial air service in and out of Salem for more than a decade.

In practical terms, the lack of air service means a 45-60 minute drive to Portland International Airport, or a drive of similar duration down to Eugene.

This will change beginning June 7, when Delta Air LInes affiliate SkyWest Airlines will provide two nonstop flights per day from Salem to Salt Lake City.

Fifty-seat jets will be used for this service, which will connect with one of Delta’s key hub airports. From there, there are nonstops to pretty much every city east of the Rockies.

This should work well for Salem-area residents, as well as for economic development efforts in the central Willamette Valley.