We Got a Sneak Peek of the Route From Palm Springs to Sacramento With Contour Airlines and Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau
Written By: Patricia Kemp
Photography Provided By: Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau Palm Springs to Sacramento Flights
Fly me to the moon, or a cruising altitude of 30,000 feet is high enough. A new seasonal nonstop flight between Palm Springs and Sacramento launches this fall that shuttles travelers daily between the desert and the state capital.
Whether your trip is for business or pleasure—or a little bit of both—the 90-minute jaunt is a quick connection between Palm Springs International Airport and Sacramento International Airport; this means bypassing hours of traffic gridlock and more poolside lounging or playing another round of golf.
Powered by Contour Airlines, the interior of the Embraer E-135 commuter jet was reconfigured for comfort with reclined leather seats for 30 passengers to relax and enjoy the ride.
“Every row has 36 inches of legroom, which is equivalent to first class on major airlines,” said Matt Chaifetz, Contour Airlines CEO. “We know Palm Springs has long been on the list of desired destinations for Sacramento residents. We’re making it easy for them to cut out the drive.”
Local officials anticipate the direct flights will bring an uptick in tourism and are eager to welcome more northern visitors to the nine resort cities’ year-round playground of pools, tennis, golf, music festivals and art events while staying at the region’s world-class hotels. The route is equally beneficial for desert dwellers wanting to visit attractions in the capital city.
“Being able to connect our destinations together is going to pay big dividends for both regions. Tourism is our number one industry and we welcome over 13 million people a year for the Coachella Music Festival to Modernism Week to tennis tournaments,” said Scott White, Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau President and CEO. “Likewise, our residents can look forward to visiting the great environment in Sacramento, like the great food and farm to table ambience.”
On a recent blue-sky morning, tourism and airline officials invited a handful of locals and media members to experience the hype around this aviation milestone that was more than a year in planning. After greeted by Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon, we boarded the plane and jetted off to Sacramento. True to Contour’s word, the seats had plenty of legroom to stretch. The friendly and professional crew, Captains Chuck and Alec, along with Jenny, a flight attendant veteran of 14 years, were gracious hosts, pointing out stunning bird’s-eye aerial views including snow-capped Big Bear and Highway 62 leading to Joshua Tree National Park.
Contour also offers a huge pet perk that’s sure to please passengers who want to tote their furry friend along on vacation. Pets on planes are welcome at no additional charge, but owners must notify the airline 24 hours prior to departure and follow the pet policy guidelines.
Service starts Sep. 16 with a special introductory fare beginning at $99 each way, but you can book your trip now. Travelers will also appreciate a complimentary first bag check-in along with a snack and beverage service.
Contour Airlines
808 Blue Angel Way
Smyrna, TN 37167
888.332.6686 Palm Springs to Sacramento Flights
