ST. CLOUD (AP) - SkyWest Airlines will be paid $803,000 to cover lost revenue for the first three months of flights from St. Cloud to Chicago.

Most of the money comes from the federal government. It contributed $750,000 to a fund that guarantees the airline won't lose money on the service. The $1 million fund requires a $250,000 local match from Stearns, Benton and Sherburne counties, as well as the cities of St. Cloud, Sartell and Sauk Rapids. Area businesses also contribute to the local match.

Twice daily United Express flights operated by SkyWest began in May when 38 percent of seats were sold. In August, 63 percent were sold.

St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis says projections for the first quarter of 2015 are that 75 to 80 percent of seats will be occupied.

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