It has been the desire of travellers and the Regina Airport to once again establish direct service from the Queen City to an American destination on a daily basis.

The head of the Regina Airport Authority is hoping a decision by Regina Council on Monday night puts them one step closer to achieving that mission,

Council is giving the airport authority a tax exemption so they can use the money being saved as additional funds in attracting an American carrier.

CEO James Bogusz says this should make the pitch they give to airlines a little easier.

“In terms of confidence level, its a tough market, but having extra dollars to invest in incentives like revenue guarantees, terminal and landing fee reductions and marketing dollars will give us a much better chance. ” Bogusz said.

There are conditions attached to the exemption including having a deal in place by the end of 2020 with the service starting by no later than the end of 2021.

Mayor Fougere considers the move to be an investment saying it is important for the city to have a direct flight to the U.S. for so many reasons including job creation, investment, and tourism.

Regina has not had a daily direct flight to the US since 2016.