By Star Journal staff

A celebratory water cannon greeted the first United Express flight from Chicago to Rhinelander Thursday morning. The announcement of the additional daily round-trip seasonal flight between Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (RHI) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD) was made in March.

“On behalf of chairman Patrick Marquart, commissioners Bradley Kowieski and Geoffrey Weller, I wish to extend our gratitude to SkyWest and United for demonstrating their strong commitment to the furtherance of commercial air service for Rhinelander and the surrounding Northwoods region,” said Matthew Leitner, Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport director. “As the first flight departs today, it does so as a testament to our airport connecting people with what’s important in their lives. We urge area travelers to visit united.com to view flight options and look forward to welcoming passengers using RHI.”

The flights are operated by SkyWest Airlines, and Leitner said they are timed to provide maximum connection opportunities for both business and leisure travelers.

“We know there are a lot of people who are ready to get away and these new United Express flights at the Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport make it easier than ever,” said Greg Atkin, SkyWest’s managing director of market development.

“Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a business trip, having access to United’s hub in Chicago means more connections and destinations around the world.”

Delta continues to operate two round-trip flights out of Rhinelander to Minneapolis-St. Paul. During the summer months, Delta operates four round-trips on Saturdays.