Sarah A Matott

Carlsbad Current-Argus

ROSWELL -- Cheers and applause sounded as the first plane from Phoenix touched down in Roswell at about 5:20 p.m. on Thursday.

Direct air service from Roswell to Phoenix with American Airlines officially kicked off with the two connecting airports celebrated the first flight.

The plane was greeted with a water cannon salute as it taxied to the air terminal at the Roswell International Air Center.

The inaugural ceremony was a two-part ceremony, with the first taking place at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Lt. Governor John Sanchez said the new connecting flight is a great accomplishment and asset for Southeast New Mexico.

"It's an exciting day for Southeast New Mexico. Not only the people of Southeast New Mexico be able to go to other points in the west, but we are also opening another door for people to visit this beautiful area in the state."

Sanchez said that the new flight will also be a boost for the local economy in the area, as it will surely help boost tourism into the area.

"The governor and I have worked hard at promoting New Mexico and tourism in the area, and this is just another arrow in the quiver," Sanchez said.

Arriving in Roswell on the plane, in addition to Sanchez, included Carlsbad City Councilor Dick Doss and Eddy County Commissioner Stella Davis.

Doss and Davis each said that the flight was great and that the new air service will be a positive thing for all of Southeast New Mexico.

Eddy County Manager Rick Rudometkin and Eddy County Commissioner Royce Pearson were also in Roswell to greet everyone getting off the plane.

Customers can already book flights to and from Phoenix.

Sarah Matott can be reached at

575-628-5546.