American Airlines may launch flights from Phoenix to Roswell, NM

ROSWELL, N.M. (AP) -- American Airlines flights between Roswell, New Mexico and Phoenix, Arizona would start March 3 under an agreement that took three years to draft.

The Roswell Daily Record reports Roswell council members will decide Wednesday whether to give the city manager authority to enter into the agreement with American Airlines.

The agreement establishes nonstop, daily commercial flights while guaranteeing the airline's minimum revenue at $1.2 million if expenses exceed passenger service. Local governments and a U.S. Department of Transportation grant would fund the revenue guarantee.

Roswell's mayor and other city officials expect the flights to promote economic growth in the southeast New Mexico region and help expand access to destinations for business and leisure.