​Big changes are coming to air travel in Watertown, South Dakota. Starting August 1, 2025, SkyWest Airlines will begin offering flights from Watertown Regional Airport (ATY) to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) under the Delta Connection brand. This new route will complement the existing United Express service to Denver International Airport (DEN), providing travelers with more options and better connectivity.​

Community-Driven Decision

The shift from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Minneapolis comes after strong community input. In a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Airport Manager Ian Meriwether-Chalfant highlighted that many residents prefer Minneapolis for both business and leisure travel. He noted that flights to Chicago had consistently lower demand compared to those to Denver, making Minneapolis a more logical choice for the community’s needs. ​

Positive Trends in Air Travel

Watertown Regional Airport has been experiencing growth in passenger numbers. In March 2025, the airport recorded 1,184 enplanements, marking a 23.3% increase over the same month in the previous year. This uptick indicates a rising demand for air travel in the region, further supporting the introduction of the new Minneapolis route.

Looking Ahead

The addition of Minneapolis-St. Paul as a destination is expected to enhance travel convenience for Watertown residents, offering improved access to a major hub with numerous domestic and international connections. With the continued support of the community and the DOT, Watertown Regional Airport is poised for a promising future in regional air travel.​

For more information on flight schedules and bookings, visit https://www.watertownairport.com/