Key Takeaways
• United Express starts daily nonstop flights from Southwest Oregon Regional Airport to Denver on May 22, 2025.
• Previous service offered only twice-weekly flights, seasonally limited from May through October.
• REAL ID-compliant identification will be mandatory for all flights starting May 7, 2025.
Starting May 22, 2025, United Express will begin daily nonstop flights between Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and Denver International Airport. This new route marks a major change for residents of Coos County and the Oregon Coast, as it replaces the older schedule that offered flights only twice a week and only for part of the year.
Before this change, people traveling between Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and Denver International Airport could only catch a direct flight two days a week during the busy summer months, from May through October. The change to a daily, nonstop flight, running every day until October 25, 2025, makes things much easier for both local people and those coming to visit. Now, travelers can plan trips without worrying about limited schedules, missed connections, or needing to drive long distances to other airports.
Let’s look at how this daily service will shape travel and what it means for the Southwest Oregon area and those hoping to connect with Denver and beyond.
What’s Changing with the New Flights?
United Express is increasing the number of nonstop flights between North Bend’s Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and Denver International Airport to once a day, every day, starting May 22, 2025. This upgrade from a twice-a-week service represents a big boost in flight options and flexibility.
– Old schedule: Flights between May and October, only two days a week
– New schedule: Daily, nonstop flights between May 22 and October 25, 2025
This means better choices for airport users, making it simpler to plan everything from family trips to business travel.
Why This Route Matters
Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, previously called North Bend Municipal Airport, is the only airport on the Oregon Coast with regular passenger airline service. It is not just another small airport—it is a lifeline for many people in the region.
Located about a mile northwest of North Bend, this airport serves not only the city but also nearby communities and tourists coming to enjoy the popular Oregon Adventure Coast. Because there are no other airports with commercial service along the entire coast, more frequent connections are helpful for everyone who lives, works, or plays in the region.
Denver International Airport is one of the largest airports in the United States 🇺🇸. It is a vital gateway, offering flights to cities across the United States 🇺🇸 and connections around the world. Having better and more regular access to Denver makes it easier for people on the Oregon Coast to reach not just Colorado, but almost anywhere around the country or even internationally.
Growth in Demand
This increase in United Express flights is not just a random decision. It comes after record usage numbers in 2022 and 2023. In 2023, the connection between Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and Denver International Airport had around 6,000 passengers. This was a rise of about 15% compared to the year before.
These numbers show steady, strong demand for air travel between these cities. Local leaders, airline managers, and airport officials have noticed more people traveling for work, family, and vacation. With numbers growing steadily, adding more flights is a smart way to meet the needs of the community.
How to Book Flights and What to Expect
To book the new nonstop service, you can go straight to United’s website or call United at 1-800-864-8331. The process is simple and much like booking any other airline travel. As reported by VisaVerge.com, clear instructions and schedules are available on United’s official booking page, making it easy for anyone to see current flight times and fares.
The airport recommends that all travelers arrive at least 90 minutes before their planned departure time to allow for check-in and security. This is especially important as the airport expects more passengers with the expanded daily service.
TSA and Identification Requirements
A new federal rule comes into effect starting May 7, 2025, for everyone traveling from Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, Denver International Airport, or any other U.S. airport. Passengers will need to show identification that meets the REAL ID standards to get through airport security. REAL ID is a type of government-issued identification card, like a driver’s license or ID card, that has a special star marking and meets tougher federal requirements to help keep air travel safe.
If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant card by May 7, 2025, you won’t be allowed to pass through TSA security or board your flight. Passengers can learn more about what counts as a REAL ID and how to get one from the official TSA REAL ID page. It’s a good idea to check your documents and apply for a REAL ID if you don’t already have one to avoid last-minute problems when traveling.
Impact on Residents and Local Economy
This change is more than just a new flight schedule. For many people living in and around Coos County, it means real improvements in how they move, work, and connect with family and friends. Here are some ways the expanded flights could help:
- Convenience: Daily service removes a major hassle for residents traveling for work, school, or healthcare. You no longer need to work around a very limited flight calendar.
- Business and commerce: Local businesses can reach more clients and meeting places, and it’s easier for companies to send representatives out or bring visitors in.
- Family connections: With more flights, people can visit relatives in Denver or transfer to other parts of the country without long stopovers.
- Healthcare access: Sometimes, specialized care is only available in larger cities. Daily flights allow for faster access to medical appointments or treatments.
With better access to Denver International Airport, people on the Oregon Coast are no longer cut off from the rest of the country. That change makes travel easier, no matter the reason.
Making Tourism Easier
Southwest Oregon Regional Airport acts as a gateway for visitors looking to explore Oregon’s Adventure Coast. The area draws people from all over for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, surfing, visiting the famous Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and much more.
More frequent flights mean tourists can plan trips at times that work best for them. That often leads to longer trips, more spending at local hotels, restaurants, and shops, and a stronger local economy.
Tourism is a key part of the local economy, with outdoor activities and nature drawing people to the region year after year. Having a daily nonstop flight to a hub like Denver International Airport makes it even easier for big-city visitors to discover the natural beauty and unique experiences the Oregon Coast has to offer.
Boost for Local Jobs and Businesses
With increased air traffic, the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport itself is likely to see benefits, including more jobs and economic activity. As the only commercial airport for this part of the state, it plays a vital role for companies moving goods, running logistics, or hosting events.
The airport’s expanded schedule may mean local businesses see more customers, as people who fly in for work or play spend money at restaurants, rent cars, shop in local stores, or stay overnight in hotels. Growth at the airport can also encourage investment in new services around the terminal, making it even more valuable to the community.
The Importance of Daily Service in a Rural Area
In rural areas like the Oregon Coast, having access to consistent flights is much more than a convenience. For some, it is a necessity. Not every region has a big airport nearby, and road travel can take long hours or be difficult in bad weather.
This daily United Express service means:
- College students can easily fly out for summer break or holidays.
- Medical patients can book same-day appointments in larger cities.
- Local businesses can send products or people without relying on less predictable transport.
- Tourists have more flexibility with their vacation plans.
When you add up these advantages, you see that a simple change in flight schedules brings many positive changes for almost everyone in the region.
Looking at Recent Growth Trends
The Southwest Oregon Regional Airport has seen strong growth, with the Denver route breaking records for passenger use in both 2022 and 2023. In 2023, around 6,000 people used this route, a 15% jump from the year before. This rise comes from a combination of more residents traveling for work and pleasure, and more visitors discovering Oregon’s scenic shoreline.
Local leaders hope the jump in demand continues as the service improves. Better flight schedules often bring more travelers, which can encourage airlines to invest further in local airports.
Who Benefits the Most?
This daily route has something to offer for many groups:
- Local families and workers can travel on their own schedule.
- Businesses have an easier time staying connected with partners and clients elsewhere.
- Tourists find it simpler to visit the Oregon Coast.
- Students and medical patients can fly out on short notice for school or healthcare needs.
Every one of these groups can now count on a regular, reliable option for their travel plans, instead of being stuck with inconvenient or limited times.
Preparing for Your Flight
To get ready for these new daily flights, remember a few key things:
- Book early for the best prices and seat choices. Visit United’s website or call the main reservation number.
- Arrive with time to spare — 90 minutes before departure gives you plenty of time for checking your bag, getting through TSA, and reaching your gate.
- Read up on REAL ID and make sure your ID will be accepted after May 7, 2025.
- Check the airline’s baggage rules in advance, so you know what you can bring.
- Watch for weather advisories, especially during Oregon’s winters or sudden coastal storms.
About Southwest Oregon Regional Airport
Southwest Oregon Regional Airport is run by the Coos County Airport District and serves as the main air travel hub for the entire coast. Its history dates back to when it was known as North Bend Municipal Airport. From business travelers to surfers and hikers, it’s the starting point for journeys up and down the Oregon coastline. If you want more factual information about the airport, visit the Coos County Airport District page.
A Milestone for the Community
For years, residents and local businesses have asked for more flights and better connections to larger airports. This change is a direct answer to that need. By offering daily United Express service, Southwest Oregon Regional Airport is keeping pace with demand and opening up the region to new opportunities.
The move shows the power of a simple change—a shift in a flight schedule—to connect people and places more effectively. As daily flights become the new normal for North Bend and Coos County, the community stands to see improved access, steady economic growth, and new reasons for residents and tourists to feel confident about air travel along the Oregon Coast.
Summary
- United Express starts daily nonstop flights between Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and Denver International Airport on May 22, 2025, until October 25, 2025.
- Past service was only twice a week, so the new schedule means more flexibility and better travel options for everyone.
- The airport is the only commercial passenger terminal on the Oregon Coast, making it critically important for residents, businesses, and visitors.
- Record growth in the last two years has led to this upgrade, with a 15% rise in passenger numbers in 2023 alone.
- Prepare by booking early, arriving with enough time, and getting a REAL ID by May 7, 2025.
- The change benefits families, businesses, tourists, and anyone needing fast, regular access to Denver and beyond.
- Community leaders hope this move marks the start of even more growth and improvement for Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in the coming years.
Whether you’re planning a vacation, visiting family, or heading to Denver for work, this daily service from United Express makes getting there just a little easier for everyone on the Oregon Coast.
Learn Today
United Express → A regional airline brand operated by various contracted carriers, providing local flights for United Airlines, including the new daily service.
REAL ID → A federally compliant identification card, such as a driver’s license with a star, required for U.S. air travel starting May 7, 2025.
Southwest Oregon Regional Airport → The only commercial passenger airport on the Oregon Coast, serving North Bend, Coos County, and the surrounding region.
Denver International Airport → One of the largest airports in the United States, providing national and international connections for Oregon Coast travelers.
TSA → Transportation Security Administration; the U.S. agency responsible for airport security and enforcing ID requirements for boarding flights.
This Article in a Nutshell
Starting May 22, 2025, United Express will launch daily nonstop flights between Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and Denver, replacing a limited seasonal schedule. This upgrade provides much-needed flexibility, helping residents, tourists, and businesses. Remember to obtain a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, to pass airport security checkpoints and travel smoothly.
— By VisaVerge.com
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