FAA approves start of commercial flights at Paine Field

EVERETT, Wash. (AP) — The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the start of commercial flights at Paine Field in Everett.

The Daily Herald newspaper reports that the decision Wednesday means Alaska Airlines and United Airlines can begin operations next month as planned. The two carriers are offering a combined 24 daily departures to destinations in the West from a new two-gate terminal at the Snohomish County-owned airport, with Alaska beginning service on March 4 and United starting up on March 31.

A few minor procedural hurdles remain.