Travelers and business owners in Idaho and Southern California will soon have a new, direct way to connect. Starting January 7, 2026, Alaska Airlines will launch a daily nonstop flight between Boise Airport and Ontario International Airport, marking a major step forward for both airports and the communities they serve.
This new route, operated by Horizon Air (a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group), will use Embraer ERJ-175 aircraft. Each plane offers 76 seats, including 12 in first class, 16 in premium class, and 48 in coach. Tickets are already available for purchase on Alaska Airlines’ official website and through major travel booking platforms. This service is the first nonstop connection between Boise and Ontario, a route that travelers and airport officials have requested for years.
Why This New Flight Matters
The addition of this daily flight is more than just another travel option. It reflects the rapid growth of both Boise Airport and Ontario International Airport. Ontario will become Boise’s 30th nonstop destination, showing how Boise Airport continues to expand its reach. For Southern California, Ontario International Airport has seen 52 straight months of year-over-year passenger growth and recently earned Level 2 status in the Airport Customer Experience Accreditation program from Airports Council International.
Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority Board, highlighted the importance of this new route. He said, “Alaska Airlines has been a valued partner for many years, and this new service will benefit both business and leisure travelers in our region.” His comments underline how the new flight will help both communities by making travel easier and more direct.
Current Travel Options and What’s Changing
Right now, Boise Airport offers nonstop flights to several California cities, including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Delta, United, American, Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier all serve the Boise-Los Angeles route. Fares for these flights in late 2025 range from $84 to $157 one-way, depending on the airline and how early you book.
The new Boise-Ontario route will not replace any existing flights. Instead, it will give travelers more choices for reaching Southern California, especially the Inland Empire region. This means more flexibility in scheduling and possibly lower fares, as more competition and extra seats often lead to better prices for passengers.
How the New Route Helps Travelers and Businesses
The direct flight between Boise Airport and Ontario International Airport is expected to help both business and tourism travel. For business travelers, the route offers a faster, more convenient way to reach meetings and events in both Idaho and Southern California. For families and tourists, it means easier access to vacation spots, family visits, and cultural attractions.
This new service also supports the growing demand for direct regional connections. As more people move between Idaho and California for work, school, or family reasons, having a nonstop flight saves time and reduces the hassle of layovers. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, increased direct flights like this one often lead to stronger business ties and more tourism, which can boost local economies.
Booking and Travel Requirements
Tickets for the new Boise-Ontario route are available now. Travelers can book directly through Alaska Airlines’ website or use popular travel booking sites. As with all flights from Boise Airport, passengers must follow standard Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules and show proper identification.
Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers flying from Boise must present one of the following:
- Idaho Star Card (a type of Real ID)
- U.S. Passport
- Active Military ID
If you do not have one of these IDs, you will not be allowed to board your flight. For more information on acceptable IDs and TSA requirements, you can visit the official TSA website.
Background: Growth at Both Airports
Boise Airport has grown quickly in recent years, adding new nonstop destinations and airline partners. This growth reflects the city’s rising population and its role as a business and travel hub in the region. Ontario International Airport has also seen steady increases in passenger numbers and has invested in upgrades to its facilities. These improvements help make Ontario a key gateway for Southern California.
The two airports’ partnership on this new route shows how regional airports can work together to meet the needs of travelers. By offering more direct flights, they make it easier for people to move between cities for work, school, or family reasons.
What This Means for Immigrants and International Travelers
For immigrants and international travelers living in Idaho or Southern California, the new nonstop flight can make travel much simpler. Instead of connecting through larger, busier airports, travelers can fly directly between Boise and Ontario. This can save time, reduce stress, and lower the risk of missed connections.
Families separated by distance will find it easier to visit each other, and students attending schools in either region will have a more direct way to travel home during holidays or breaks. Businesses that employ workers from both areas will also benefit from easier travel for meetings, training, or relocation.
Looking Ahead: Possible Future Routes
The Boise-Ontario route is set to begin on January 7, 2026, with no end date announced. If the route proves popular, it may be expanded with more flights or larger planes. Both Boise Airport and Ontario International Airport are actively seeking more nonstop routes, so travelers can expect further announcements in late 2025 or early 2026.
No other new nonstop California routes from Boise have been officially announced for 2025 beyond the Ontario service. Any future updates will be posted on the official Boise Airport and Alaska Airlines websites, as well as in major news outlets.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Book Early: With the new route opening, demand may be high, especially during holidays or peak travel times. Booking early can help you get the best fares and seat choices.
- Check ID Requirements: Make sure you have the correct ID before your travel date. If you need to apply for an Idaho Star Card or renew your passport, start the process early.
- Monitor Official Channels: For the latest updates on flight schedules, fares, and travel rules, check the Boise Airport official website or Alaska Airlines’ site.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The new daily nonstop flight between Boise Airport and Ontario International Airport, operated by Alaska Airlines, is a welcome development for travelers, businesses, and families in both regions. It offers more choices, greater convenience, and the promise of continued growth for both airports. As the route launches in January 2026, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, stay informed, and take advantage of this new connection between Idaho and Southern California.
This Article in a Nutshell
