PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — The federal government is seeking proposals from airlines to see what it would cost to provide subsidized service in Pierre.

The Transportation Department wants proposals from carriers who could fly between Pierre and a major hub such as Minneapolis or Denver through the Essential Air Service program. The deadline is Oct. 15.

Great Lakes Airlines currently serves Pierre, but the carrier has had to cancel or delay many flights because of a lack of pilots. The airline cites new federal regulations for the pilot shortage.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

More From KXRB