Direct route to Denver added at Bob Hope

Southwest Airlines plans to add two flights a day to Denver at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank starting in August.

Southwest is the largest carrier at Bob Hope Airport, accounting for about 65% of passenger traffic, according to airport spokesman Victor Gill. Up until now, Bob Hope has been the only California airport that Southwest serves that lacked direct service to Denver.

Gill said Southwest’s decision has spurred more competition, with United Express increasing its direct service from Burbank to Denver. Gill said Denver is an important market as a destination and as a connector for travelers headed to the East Coast.

-- Bill Kisliuk