DOT selects Boutique Air for Pendleton Essential Air Service

By Dan Thesman on Monday, May 18th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories

PENDLETON – Eastern Oregon Regional Airport Manager Dan Bandel announced Monday that the U.S. Department of Transportation has selected Boutique Air to provide Essential Air Services (EAS) between Pendleton and Portland from June 1, 2026 through May 31, 2030.

Bandel explained Boutique Air will continue operating 21 weekly round trips to Portland International Airport using Pilatus PC 12 aircraft.

This decision, according to Bandel, follows DOT’s review of all carrier proposals and public comments.

“The Department determined that Boutique’s service – supported by their reliability record, interline connectivity, and the apparent preference expressed by Pendleton travelers – best met the statutory criteria required under federal law,” he said.

Bandel adds that the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport will work with Boutique Air during the transition into the new four year term to ensure reliable service for the community.

File photo