The first United Express flights, operated by SkyWest Airlines, from Hays to Denver are scheduled to take off beginning Aug. 1, the airline announced in a news release Monday.

“Having access to reliable, local air service is critical for the economic development of communities and we look forward to the start of these new United Express flights in Hays,” said Mike Thompson, SkyWest Airlines vice president of market development. “Hays travelers taking advantage of this new service will enjoy a new connection to an unmatched global network.”

There will be 12 weekly flights from Hays to Denver.

The Hays flights will operate using 50-seat Bombardier-manufactured CRJ200 aircraft, the first time Hays Regional Airport has had a carrier that used turbojets. Previous carriers have used turboprops.

The previous carrier, Great Lakes, ended service at the end of March, leaving the Hays airport temporarily without commercial service.

For more on SkyWest, visit www.skywest.com.