Beginning today, both United Express and Northwest introduced two new aircraft to the Fargo market.  Both aircraft, manufactured by Bombardier and have first-class seating.

United Express replaced a 50-seat jet on its Denver route with the CRJ-700.  The new 66-seat regional jet features First Class and Economy Plus seating.  The aircraft cabin features fully equipped galleys for in-flight service, ample overhead storage, a spacious lavatory, raised windows for more natural lighting and a lowered floor providing passengers with additional head and shoulder room.  The aircraft contains state-of-the-art digital technology systems ensuring passenger comfort and safety.  Each row contains only four seats with two seats on either side of the aisle, eliminating undesirable middle seats along with providing easy access to overhead bins.

United Express operated by Skywest Airlines currently offers eight flights daily with four to Chicago O’Hare and four to Denver.

Also today, Northwest Airlines completed its first revenue flight with the new 76-seat Bombardier CRJ900 regional jet aircraft.

The new aircraft was an upgrade from a smaller regional jet serving the Fargo market.  The CRJ900 offers a two class service with 12 seats in first class and 64 seats arranged in a 2-2 seat configuration.  The interior features leather seating, larger overhead bins, larger windows for enhanced passenger viewing, new cabin lighting and additional headroom throughout the cabin.

The aircraft is operated by Mesaba, a wholly owned subsidiary of Northwest Airlines.  The first CRJ900 will serve Fargo, Minneapolis, Dallas and Chicago (Midway).  Mesaba is expected to have 36 CRJ900 in service by the end of 2008.