Flights From LAX To Mammoth Mountain And Back Are Now Boarding

Horizon Air's inaugural daily service from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to  Mammoth Mountain starts today (Dec. 18), in time for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy more than four feet of fresh powder.

The flight marks the beginning of regular LAX-Mammoth air service throughout the winter until April 12, 2009.

The 65-minute flight departs Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at 2:20 p.m. and arrives at Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) at 3:25 p.m.

The return flight leaves Mammoth at 4:05 p.m. and arrives at LAX at 5:10 p.m. The flight will also facilitate inbound travel from a wide variety of national and international airlines with service into LAX.

Horizon will operate with the airline's Bombardier Q400 for the Mammoth route. This 74/76-seat, high-speed, twin-engine turboprop is one of the most technologically advanced regional aircraft in the world.

Horizon officials say the aircraft is as quiet and comfortable as a jet, thanks to its special technology that suppresses noise and vibration, generously-sized overhead storage bins, unobstructed under-seat space, and ample headroom.

The Q400 is reportedly among the most environmentally friendly aircraft, burning 30 percent less fuel and producing 30 percent lower emissions than comparable jets.

The innaugural flight on Dec. 18 has members of the media, including a producer from Good Morning America.

Introductory fares of $79 each way for travel from Los Angeles to Mammoth are available for selected days in January 2009. Regualr fares from LA start as low as $99 each way, but round-trip tickets are available midweek from Dec. 22 - Dec. 26, 2008 for $238.

Storms have dropped more than three feet of fresh snow on the mountain since Dec. 13.

More snow in the forecast and Mammoth will be opening Canyon and Eagle Lodges for the season Dec. 20.

Resort officials expect to have the entire resort in full operation for the holidays.

Check out OnTheSnow's Ski Weather Guide for daily-updated reports on storms and conditions in your region.