Horizon Air Provides Sole Links on Key Routes

In an era when airline route cuts are commonplace, and those runs that remain often radiate from major hubs, this is refreshing news. Horizon Air's new schedule calls for nonstop flights in a couple of city pairs which would be otherwise bereft of air service.

The routes are Sacramento (SMF) to San Jose (SJC) and Helena, MT (HLN) to Billings, MT (BIL).

Even though Horizon is the only carrier plying these routes, the rates can be reasonable. The discount airfare for the San Jose-Sacramento flight is $49, one-way. That entails a 14-day advance purchase, and neither taxes nor fees are included. The discount airfare is valid through September 30.

Helena to Billings is a bit more: $89, one-way, also exclusive of taxes and fees. Seats at this price have to be bought at least seven days in advance of departure, and you'll have to finish your trip by September 27.

Horizon is flying its highest-tech, most fuel-efficient aircraft on both routes: the 76-passenger Q400 burns so percent less Jet A than comparable jets, and emits a third lower emissions. It's also remarkably quiet for a propjet.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler