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New flights to Las Vegas to start out of Carlsbad

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To drive, or to fly? It's a question many San Diegans ask when planning a trip to Las Vegas.

But a new airline starting service in September could help make the decision easier, especially for those who live in North County.

On Sept. 28, CalJet Elitewill start offering two daily roundtrips from Carlsbad's Palomar Airport to Las Vegas. That can save people who live in North County from the traffic-filled trip down to Lindbergh Field.

Fares start at $69 during the week, but can be above $100, even approaching $200, on peak days. And while those may not always beat Southwest, travelers can make it up with time and other savings. For instance, Palomar Airport has a modern terminal, but it's not used at all, something that could help travelers zip in and out of security. And parking is $5 a day, a fraction of what it can cost at Lindbergh Field. 

"It's just an airport that's saying, 'let's put some people in the air and let's go fly to Las Vegas'," said Rick Scott, a San Marcos resident who stopped by to see if there are any flights to Vegas. 

Caljet will fly regional jets, seating a little more than 50 travelers. 

Nick Wozniak, a spokesman for the airline, said passengers can check their first bag for free. He also said while some fairs are nonrefundable, nobody will be penalized with rebooking fees. 
 
Flights out of Carlsbad leave at 9 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Returning flights from Las Vegas depart at 11 a.m. and 2:45 p.m.