SkyWest, which operates as United Express, Delta Connection and Continental Connection, on Wednesday said fourth quarter profit rose 22 percent, helped by increased revenue, as the airline operator expanded its fleet.

Net income for SkyWest increased to USD$21.25 million from USD$17.46 million a year earlier.

Operating revenue increased 38 percent to USD$326.7 million as available seat miles rose 28 percent and the fleet grew to 210 aircraft from 185.