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Busiest U.S Airports: Yeager Airport, West Virginia

by AviationSource May 18, 2024

written by AviationSource

Yeager Airport, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, stands as a testament to the state’s rich aviation history and its continued contribution to the field.

Named after famed test pilot General Chuck Yeager, the airport has played a vital role in connecting the region to the rest of the world and has witnessed significant milestones in aviation since its inception.

Early History and Construction

The roots of Yeager Airport trace back to the early 20th century when aviation was still in its infancy.

In 1944, as World War II raged on, the United States Army Air Forces recognized the strategic importance of establishing an airport in Charleston, the capital city of West Virginia.

Construction began on what was initially known as Kanawha Airport, named after the county in which it resides.

In 1985, Kanawha Airport underwent a significant transformation and was renamed Yeager Airport in honor of one of West Virginia’s most celebrated sons, General Chuck Yeager.

A native of the state, Yeager achieved international fame as the first pilot to break the sound barrier in 1947.

The renaming ceremony marked a symbolic gesture, recognizing Yeager’s pioneering spirit and his contributions to aviation.

Expansion, Modernization & Tragedy

Over the years, Yeager Airport has undergone several expansions and modernization efforts to meet the growing demands of air travel.

In 1986, a new terminal building was constructed, featuring modern amenities and improved facilities for passengers.

Subsequent upgrades have included:

Runway extensions
Addition of new gates
Enhanced security measures.

All of this ensured that Yeager remains a state-of-the-art aviation hub.

Furthermore, despite its contributions to aviation, Yeager Airport has also faced adversity.

In 2015, tragedy struck when a landslide caused a hillside to collapse.

This destroyed a section of the runway and forcing the airport to close temporarily.

The incident disrupted air travel and posed significant challenges to the airport’s operations.

However, through resilience and determination, Yeager Airport rebounded, undertaking extensive repairs and reopening to serve the community once again.

Community Impact and Economic Growth

Yeager Airport has not only served as a gateway for travelers but has also been a driving force behind economic growth in the region.

The airport provides essential infrastructure for businesses and industries, facilitating trade and commerce.

Moreover, it serves as a vital link for tourism, attracting visitors to West Virginia’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

Throughout its history, Yeager Airport has been a hub for innovation and excellence in aviation.

Furthermore, from pioneering flights to cutting-edge technology, the airport has remained at the forefront of advancements in the field.

It continues to foster collaboration between industry leaders, academic institutions, and government agencies, driving innovation and shaping the future of aviation.

Overall, Yeager Airport stands as a symbol of West Virginia’s enduring spirit and its commitment to progress.

From its humble beginnings to its status as a modern aviation hub, the airport has played a pivotal role in connecting the region to the world.

As it continues to evolve and adapt to meet the challenges of the future, Yeager Airport remains an integral part of the state’s identity and a beacon of hope for generations to come.

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May 18, 2024 0 comment

A Breeze Airways Embraer E190 on the tarmac.

Airline

New Breeze Airways – West Virginia partnership announced

by Len Varley March 29, 2023

written by Len Varley

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has announced an innovative new partnership between the state, Kanawha County, the city of Charleston and the new US low-cost carrier Breeze Airways.

Under the partnership agreement, the airline will aim to connect West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) with at least five cities over the next two years.

New nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida (MCO) and Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) are now set to begin on May 31, 2023.

In addition, at least three more destinations, including New York City, are slated to be added by the carrier over the next 24 months.

An innovation to counter declining connectivity

This innovative partnership comes after years of decline in available destinations from smaller airports around the country, including West Virginia International Yeager Airport.

The flights announced today will more than double air connectivity to West Virginia’s capital.

“I’ve said over and over that our airports in West Virginia are our lifeblood,” Gov. Jim Justice said, “They fuel our economy, bring in tourism, and their ripple effects are off-the-charts.”

“CRW is absolutely knocking it out of the park, and it’s a testament to West Virginia’s resurgence as a top destination for tourism, and as the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”

“I’m so proud to welcome Breeze Airways to Almost Heaven, because I know that they will find success here, but above all, they will find a new home among our hills.”

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About Breeze Airways

Breeze Airways was launched in 2021 by JetBlue founder and former CEO David Neeleman with a mission to fill a key gap in America’s air-travel offerings: efficient, affordable, direct flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times.

It was recently named one of the best domestic airlines in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure. Breeze offers travelers the option of three price levels, which it refers to as “Nice,” “Nicer,” and “Nicest,” the latter of which includes a first-class seat on the airline’s Airbus A220 aircraft.

“As we look to fill the gaps left by larger carriers in midsized markets, Charleston/Yeager is a great fit for Breeze’s business model,” said David Neeleman, Breeze Airways’ Founder and CEO.

“With our new ‘Charleston to Charleston’ service, we’ll connect the West Virginia and South Carolina cities for the very first time, and our new nonstop to Orlando is also adding another currently unserved destination from CRW.”

“We know the Almost Heaven community will enjoy Breeze’s affordability, flexibility, and our family friendly policies including free family seating.”

Breeze has grown rapidly since its founding, now with 145 nonstop routes between 36 cities in 22 states nationally. The airline has ordered 80 brand new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with options for 40 more.

This summer, Breeze aircraft will be seen touching down in the Mountain State. The partnership includes adding three additional routes in the first two years, including potential service to New York City and the west coast.

The announcement follows several years of record-breaking tourism growth in West Virginia and a year in which the state was labeled a must-see tourism destination by publications such as Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, TIME, CNN, and USA Today.

Summary

Following the progressive decline in regional air connectivity, the newly minted innovative partnership will likely be greeted with enthusiasm by stakeholders and the wider community.

An expansion of this magnitude at West Virginia International Yeager Airport is unprecedented. Airport officials are excited about the long-term possibilities created by this new partnership.

March 29, 2023 0 comment

Incident

Sonic boom in Washington DC as F-16s intercept unresponsive Citation jet

by Len Varley June 5, 2023

written by Len Varley

On June 4, 2023, a sonic boom was heard in the Washington, D.C., area. The sonic boom in Washington was caused by two F-16 fighter jets from Joint Base Andrews that were involved in the intercept of an unresponsive Cessna Citation private jet.

The aircraft – a privately owned Cessna 560 Citation V light jet – subsequently crashed in a mountainous region of southwest Virginia after it flew through a ‘no-fly’ zone, raising concerns and prompting the scrambling of two NORAD F-16 fighter aircraft from Joint Base Andrews.

The aircraft’s flight path had taken it close to both the White House and the U.S. Capitol.

The June 4 incident

The Cessna had entered restricted airspace near Washington, D.C., and the F-16s were scrambled to intercept it at around 3.20PM Eastern Time.

The Cessna pilot was not responding to hails from Air Traffic Control, and the F-16s were forced to use flares to try to attract the pilot’s attention.

The intercepting F-16 fighter jets had been “cleared supersonic to respond” to the Cessna which was reported to be ignoring radio queries, and flying on what was described as a “strange flight path” outside nation’s capital, officials said.

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The Cessna Citation jet eventually crashed near the George Washington National Forest in southwest Virginia. There were no survivors.

FAA statement

The FAA stated that the Cessna subsequently crashed near Staunton, Virginia. In a statement the US aviation regulator said:

“A Cessna Citation crashed into mountainous terrain in a sparsely populated area of south-west Virginia around 3 PM local time on June 4. The aircraft took off from Elizabethton Municipal Airport in Elizabethton Tennessee and was bound for Long Island MacArthur Airport in New York.

Sonic boom heard

When an aircraft travels faster than the speed of sound, it creates a shock wave that can be heard as a loud, explosive sound. The sonic boom from the F-16s was heard as far away as Baltimore, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia.

The crash of the Cessna is still under investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is looking into the cause of the crash, including whether the pilot’s unresponsiveness was due to a medical emergency or some other factor.

June 5, 2023 0 comment

A Piedmont Airlines American Eagle Embraer jet in flight.

General Aviation

Piedmont Airlines signs Heavy Maintenance Agreement with MHIRJ

by Len Varley April 18, 2023

written by Len Varley

MHI RJ Aviation Group (MHIRJ), the largest regional maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service provider in the U.S., has signed a three-year Aircraft Heavy Maintenance Service Agreement with Piedmont Airlines.

The agreement covers maintenance services to be provided on the airline’s Embraer E145 aircraft at MHIRJ’s West Virginia Facility.

A wholly owned subsidiary of the American Airlines Group, Piedmont operates more than 300 daily departures to 70 destinations and employs more than 10,000 aviation professionals.

First Piedmont aircraft in May

A crucial part of MHIRJ’s growth strategy and commitment to broadening its markets, maintenance work will be conducted on Piedmont’s fleet of Embraer E145 aircraft at the Bridgeport WV facility.

Under the terms of the agreement, MHIRJ will operate a single dedicated nose-to-tail heavy maintenance line at the service center with the potential of adding more lines in the future.

The first Piedmont aircraft is scheduled to enter the facility in early May.

“We’re excited about this new agreement which allows us to provide exceptional service to Piedmont while expanding our operations to other aircraft platforms,” said Don Nolan, Director of Service Sales, MHIRJ.

“This contract represents another step toward our goal of offering world-class maintenance services to more aircraft types around the globe while furthering our support of American Airlines and their regional fleet.”

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“Our collaboration with Piedmont represents a significant milestone for us as it emphasizes MHIRJ’s commitment to servicing aircraft beyond the CRJ,” said Ismail Mokabel, Senior Vice President, Head of Aftermarket.

“Our focus remains to create continued value for our CRJ customers and offer our Heavy Maintenance expertise and experience on other platforms, while exploring opportunities that will allow us to elevate our service offering and diversify our capabilities.”

About Piedmont Airlines

Piedmont Airlines is a regional airline that is based in Salisbury, Maryland, in the United States.

The airline was founded in 1931, and it currently operates under the name “American Eagle,” as a subsidiary of American Airlines.

Piedmont Airlines has a long and interesting history. In the 1980s, it became known for its innovative approach to customer service, and it was one of the first airlines to offer advanced training to its employees in order to improve the passenger experience.

In 1987, it was acquired by USAir (now known as US Airways), and it continued to operate as a regional carrier for the larger airline.

In 2013, US Airways merged with American Airlines, and Piedmont Airlines became a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines.

Piedmont operates a fleet of Embraer 145 and Bombardier CRJ regional jets, and it provides service to destinations throughout the eastern United States, including Charlotte, North Carolina, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Piedmont Airlines has a rich history and has played an important role in the development of regional air travel in the United States.

Today, as a subsidiary of American Airlines, it continues to provide safe and reliable service to passengers in the eastern United States.

Currently, MHIRJ supports American Airlines with contracts to provide maintenance services for PSA Airlines, Air Wisconsin Airlines and SkyWest Airlines on CRJ700, CRJ900 and CRJ200 aircraft and with American Airlines’ interline partner Contour Airlines.

April 18, 2023 0 comment

Airline

Sun Country Airlines to launch two Canadian routes in 2024

by Len Varley October 21, 2023

written by Len Varley

Sun Country Airlines (NASDAQ:SNCY) will launch new nonstop service to Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in June of 2024, subject to final approval.

The US low-cost leisure carrier has also extended its schedule for customers to book travel through Sept. 10, 2024.

New Routes for 2024

In June 2024 (pending final approval), Sun Country Airlines is all set to add transborder flights with the introduction of nonstop services to Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).

These two iconic Canadian cities will be just a flight away, adding a touch of international flair to Sun Country’s already impressive network.

But that’s not all. Sun Country’s commitment to providing diverse travel options extends further with the introduction of eight new domestic, seasonal nonstop routes from MSP to the following exciting destinations:

1. Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), New Mexico

2. Billings Logan International Airport (BIL), Montana

3. Boise Airport (BOI), Idaho

4. Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia/Washington, D.C.

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5. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), Grand Rapids, Michigan

6. Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), Montana

7. Oakland International Airport (OAK), California

8. Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), New York

With most of these destinations offering twice-weekly services, Dulles International Airport stands out with four weekly flights.

A Sun Country Airlines Boeing 737NG aircraft parked. — Photo Credit: Sun Country Airlines

Expanding Horizons

Sun Country’s 2024 expansion means they will now offer nonstop services from MSP to a staggering 98 distinct markets.

This expansion speaks to Sun Country’s commitment to becoming the go-to airline for leisure travelers out of MSP.

Over the past five years, the airline has more than doubled its nonstop destinations, demonstrating their dedication to providing a wide array of travel options. From Quebec to New Mexico, Sun Country has you covered.

Seasonal Services and New Airports

Sun Country is not just looking to the future; they’re committed to continuing their seasonal service to cities they launched in the summer of 2023.

This consistency ensures that travelers can rely on Sun Country Airlines for their favorite summer getaways.

Additionally, starting in spring 2024, Houston-bound flights will operate through William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) instead of George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH).

This change is a strategic move by Sun Country to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.

With this recent announcement, Sun Country Airlines is set to operate an impressive 120 routes, connecting 104 airports across the United States, Mexico, Central America, Canada, and the Caribbean.

This extensive network positions them as a top choice for travelers looking for safe, reliable, and affordable flights to a variety of destinations.

The Sun Country Service

What sets the leisure airline apart from the rest is not just their extensive route network but also their commitment to providing an exceptional onboard experience. Passengers can expect:

State-of-the-Art Seating: Sun Country offers state-of-the-art seating equipment with full-size tray tables, comfortable recline, and in-seat power in most seats.

Free In-Flight Entertainment: Sun Country provides free in-flight entertainment that you can access on your own devices. This includes a wide range of options to keep you entertained during your flight.

Complimentary Beverages: Passengers can enjoy a variety of complimentary beverages, including water, coffee, tea, juices, and soda.

Local Partnerships: Sun Country proudly partners with many Minnesota and Midwest-based companies to offer local products on their menu. This allows passengers to savor the flavors of the region during their flight.

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October 21, 2023 0 comment

Render of new Pratt & Whitney Singapore facility

Manufacturer

Pratt & Whitney to expand Singapore MRO capacity

by Len Varley September 28, 2023

written by Len Varley

Aircraft engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney has announced its plans to expand the capacity of its Singapore engine center, Eagle Services Asia (ESA).

This development signifies a further step forward in Pratt & Whitney’s move to meet ever-growing regional aviation demand and support its GTF engines.

Pratt & Whitney’s Global Investment

The centerpiece of this expansion move is a colossal 48,000 square-foot development project that will effectively boost the current capacity of Eagle Services Asia by two-thirds.

“Pratt & Whitney is investing globally to support the GTF fleet,” affirms Shangari Meleschi, Vice President of Aftermarket Operations – Asia Pacific and Turkiye.

This statement underlines the company’s determination to provide world-class support to its customers around the globe.

As part of the expansion, a key focus will be on increasing staffing and providing extensive training to ensure that the ESA team is well-equipped to handle the surging demand.

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A Pioneering Collaboration

Singapore Eagle Services Asia is a joint venture between SIA Engineering Company and Pratt & Whitney. It stands as a shining example of collaboration in the aviation industry.

This venture is also a proud member of the Pratt & Whitney GTF™ MRO network, which boasts some of the industry’s leading MRO companies.

The Growth of the GTF MRO Network

Since 2019, the GTF MRO network has witnessed exponential growth, more than doubling in size. Currently, there are 13 active GTF MRO engine centers spread across the world, with an additional six expected to be operational by 2025.

This network is a pivotal part of Pratt & Whitney EngineWise® solutions, which provide engine operators with an array of aftermarket services aimed at ensuring long-term, sustainable value.

The GTF engine family is the quietest, most efficient, most environmental in its class, delivering the lowest fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions for single-aisle aircraft.

The powerplant is currently employed on narrowbody aircraft types which include the Airbus A220 and A320neo families, as well as the Embraer E2 family aircraft.

A Pratt & Whitney GTF engine in service at Air France KLM Engineering workshop. — Pratt & Whitney GTF engine. Photo Credit: Raytheon Technologies

About RTX

RTX is the world’s largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 180,000 global employees, it operates through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon.

The group operates in aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges.

The company, with 2022 sales of $67 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

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September 28, 2023 0 comment

Airline

Spirit Airlines partners with Liberty University to expand pilot program

by Len Varley September 16, 2023

written by Len Varley

Virginia’s Liberty University is to become the tenth flight training institution to join Spirit Airlines Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program.

Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway

Spirit Airlines has taken a further step towards expanding its cadre of professional pilots. This partnership with Liberty University, located in the picturesque Lynchburg, Virginia, marks a notable occasion for both institutions.

Liberty University becomes the 10th distinguished partner to join the Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program, an initiative designed to accelerate graduates’ journey to the flight deck and embark on a fulfilling career as a Spirit First Officer.

Spirit Airlines and Liberty University with a Cessna 172 trainer. — Photo Credits: Spirit Airlines

Ryan Rodosta, Senior Director of Flight Operations and System Chief Pilot at Spirit Airlines, reflects on the journey, saying,

“We put a lot of hard work into developing the Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program and assembling a great group of partners making it incredibly rewarding to reach this key milestone.”

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“Liberty University offers a premier pilot training program designed to provide graduates with the skills to lead in the aviation field, and Spirit’s growth creates opportunities for those graduates to achieve their dreams with us.”

The Pathway for Applicants

For students at Liberty University pursuing an aviation degree, the Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program opens a door of exciting possibilities. Eligible candidates can apply for this program upon completing their sophomore year and obtaining a recommendation from a faculty member.

Upon successful navigation of Spirit’s rigorous interview process, they will receive a conditional offer of employment, a Spirit Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), and invaluable mentorship throughout their journey, all while they continue their academic pursuits and accrue essential flight hours.

The program’s culmination occurs when these aspiring aviators meet the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) minimum requirements.

At this stage, they must successfully complete the Spirit-funded and approved Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program (ATP CTP) and Jet Transition Course.

Graduates who successfully fulfill these program requirements will ascend to the esteemed position of a Spirit First Officer, realizing their aviation dreams.

Win-Win Partnership

Rick Roof, Dean of the School of Aeronautics at Liberty University, expresses his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to join with Spirit Airlines as the 10th partner in their Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program.”

“This partnership is a major step in creating exceptional opportunities for our graduates, providing selected Liberty-trained aviation professionals with a unique pathway directly to Spirit once they fulfill the necessary training and experience.”

“Spirit will gain access to pilots with exceptional technical skills and the character to be difference-makers in the aerospace industry.”

“Liberty Aeronautics graduates can become a member of the Spirit team where they will join a recognized leader in quality of life while flying some of the most advanced aircraft in the skies.”

“This is an incredible opportunity for our Champions to fulfill their aviation dreams, and their calling to serve.”

Flying with Spirit

Spirit Airlines pilots operate some of the newest and most fuel-efficient aircraft in the world, connecting passengers to over 90 destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

With plans to introduce eight new Airbus A321neo aircraft in 2023, aspiring First Officers can look forward to swift advancements in their careers.

Notably, Spirit’s Pilots recently approved a contract that includes significant pay increases and enhanced benefits, making this career path even more enticing.

Additionally, Spirit Airlines takes pride in offering its Pilots industry-leading training and an exceptional quality of life.

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September 16, 2023 0 comment

Airport

Dulles Airport solar project will power 37,000 homes

by Len Varley August 24, 2023

written by Len Varley

Officials from Dominion Energy and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) were joined by federal, state and local leaders Tuesday to break ground on the Dulles Solar and Storage project at Dulles International Airport (IAD), VA.

Once completed, it will be the largest renewable energy project ever developed at a U.S. airport. It will generate up to 100 megawatts (MW) of solar energy and store up to 50 MW of power, enough clean energy to power more than 37,000 Virginia homes at peak output.

All the energy produced will be fed back to serve Dominion Energy Virginia customers.

Path to Sustainability

Upon its completion, the Dulles Solar and Storage project is primed to stand as the largest renewable energy venture ever undertaken within a U.S. airport’s premises.

The sheer magnitude of its impact is emphasized by its capability to generate a staggering 100 megawatts (MW) of solar energy.

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Even more impressively, it will possess the capacity to store up to 50 MW of power, a formidable feat that will provide clean and efficient energy to power more than 37,000 homes in the state of Virginia at the peak of its output.

This energy will be fed into Dominion Energy’s infrastructure, offering a green and reliable energy source to its Virginia customers.

Uniting Renewables and Storage

The significance of this project extends beyond its impressive energy generation capacity.

By merging emissions-free renewable energy with cutting-edge energy storage technology, the Dulles Solar and Storage project embodies Dominion Energy’s commitment to an “all of the above” approach in delivering increasingly clean energy to its customers.

This forward-looking strategy represents a critical step towards a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape.

Image Credits: Dulles International Airport

Statements from Industry Leaders

Bob Blue, the esteemed Chair, President, and CEO of Dominion Energy, aptly summarized the significance of this endeavor, stating, “This is an exciting moment for the future of clean, reliable energy, not only for Virginia but for the entire nation.”

“Thanks to our strong partnership with MWAA, millions of travelers flying in and out of Dulles every year will see this powerful symbol of the clean energy transition.”

“Just as air travelers can always count on Dulles to reach their destination, our customers can always count on us to deliver reliable and increasingly clean energy.”

Jack Potter, the President and CEO of MWAA, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the groundbreaking nature of the partnership.

He remarked, “This partnership will result in the largest renewable energy project ever developed at a U.S. airport. It’s just one of many ways the Airports Authority is constantly working to be a good steward of the environment.”

“We look forward to working with Dominion Energy to help provide emission-free electricity to serve the growing energy needs of the Dulles community and the National Capital Region.”

Political Backing

Senator Mark Warner emphasized the historic nature of the project, calling it “a first-of-its-kind renewable energy project at a major U.S. airport.”

He expressed hope that this partnership would set an example for future renewable energy initiatives across the nation, contributing to a greener and energy-independent future.

Senator Warner’s sentiments are buoyed by the recent bipartisan infrastructure law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which promise additional federal investments in clean energy, solidifying Virginia’s position as a pioneering state in innovative clean energy production.

Dulles International Airport Layout

The expansive scale of the Dulles Solar and Storage project encompasses 835 acres nestled within the southwest corner of Dulles International Airport. Construction, scheduled to commence in late 2023, is projected to culminate by late 2026.

Beyond its environmental impact, the project is set to usher in significant economic advantages for Loudoun County and the broader region.

The construction phase alone is anticipated to provide employment for over 300 individuals, fostering an economic injection of $200 million.

The fruition of the Dulles Solar and Storage project was attained through meticulous planning and rigorous assessments.

It secured its final endorsement earlier this year following an extensive, multi-year evaluation conducted by esteemed bodies including the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, and Virginia State Corporation Commission, in addition to various state and federal agencies.

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August 24, 2023 0 comment

Airline

Breeze Airways Expands to Florida with 11 New Seasonal Routes

by Len Varley July 20, 2023

written by Len Varley

US low-cost carrier Breeze Airways plans to expand its services to Florida with 11 new seasonal routes. The new routes will connect Fort Myers, Florida with nine cities in the Midwest and Eastern United States:

Akron-Canton, Ohio; Columbus, Ohio; Louisville, Kentucky; New Orleans, Louisiana; Norfolk, Virginia; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; Richmond, Virginia; and Syracuse, New York.

‘Snowbird’ routes

The new routes will start in November 2023 and run through April 2024. Breeze Airways is targeting “snowbirds” with these new routes – those who travel to Florida for the winter months. The airline is hoping to attract these travelers with its low fares and convenient service.

This is not the first time that Breeze Airways has expanded its service to Florida. In February 2023, the airline announced new routes from Providence, Rhode Island to Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.

With these latest expansions, Breeze Airways will now offer service to seven airports in Florida.

A Breeze Airways A220 flies into the sunset. — Photo Credit: Breeze Airways

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Founded by David Neeleman, who also founded Morris Air, WestJet, JetBlue, and Azul Linhas Aereas. The airline launched in May 2021 with service from Salt Lake City to Charleston, South Carolina.

Breeze Airways is targeting underserved markets with its low fares and convenient service. The airline’s motto is “Nice, new, and nonstop.” The new routes to Florida are a further sign that Breeze Airways is continuing to grow and expand its reach.

Providing more Florida travel options

The new routes from Breeze Airways will give travelers more options when flying to Florida. For snowbirds, these new routes will provide a more convenient and affordable way to travel to the Sunshine State.

For other travelers, these new routes will likely open up new destinations in Florida that were not previously served by low-cost carriers.

The new routes from Breeze Airways are a sign of the growing competition in the airline industry as it moves further into the post-pandemic recovery period.

With travellers continuing to show an appetite for air travel, low-cost carriers are becoming increasingly popular, and they are putting pressure on traditional airlines to lower their fares.

The new routes from Breeze Airways will potentially stand to put pressure on other airlines that serve Florida, as they move to compete with Breeze Airways’ low fares.

Breeze Airways is a young airline, but it has already made a significant impact on the industry. The airline’s low fares and convenient service have attracted a large number of customers, and it is continuing to grow rapidly.

It is likely that Breeze Airways will continue to expand its route network in the future, and move to consolidate that network.

Conclusion

The new routes from Breeze Airways to Florida are a sign that the airline is continuing to grow and expand its reach. The airline is hoping to attract new customers with these new routes, and it is targeting “snowbirds” with its wintertime service.

The new routes are also a sign of the growing competition in the airline industry, and they could put pressure on other airlines that serve Florida.

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July 20, 2023 0 comment

Airline

Avelo Airlines adds three routes from Alabama and South Carolina

by Len Varley March 10, 2023

written by Len Varley

Avelo Airlines has added three new nonstop national routes, extending its U.S. network to 37 destinations.

The low-cost airline will begin service at Mobile International Airport (BFM) with a special inaugural flight on Wednesday, May 31, followed by twice weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. BFM is the Gulf Coast’s newest airport.

BFM’s downtown Mobile location makes it the city’s most convenient airport. Avelo will be the only airline operating scheduled service at BFM when it takes flight in May.

It will also be the only airline offering nonstop service to Orlando from the greater Mobile region.

South Carolina’s Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) to MCO

Avelo will begin service between Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) on June 7 with twice weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays, then transitioning to Mondays and Fridays on June 23.

GSP is Avelo’s third South Carolina destination, joining Charleston and Myrtle Beach. With the addition of BFM and GSP, Orlando will now serve 13 nonstop destinations.

GSP to Southern Connecticut’s most convenient airport – Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN)

This route will begin on June 22 with twice weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. GSP represents Avelo’s 15^th destination from HVN. Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between Connecticut and GSP.

Avelo Airlines Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy said, “We are excited to introduce South Carolina’s Upcountry and Mobile, Alabama to Avelo’s low fares, industry-leading reliability, and caring service.”

“Travel is now more convenient than ever with the addition of these two small, fast and easy hometown airports. We look forward to welcoming aboard our new Mobile and Greenville-Spartanburg Customers.”

About Avelo Airlines

Avelo Airlines is a low-cost airline that started operating in the United States in April 2021. The airline is based in Houston, Texas, and its main hub is Hollywood Burbank Airport in California.

Avelo Airlines currently operates flights to several destinations across the United States, including Burbank, California; Santa Rosa, California; Phoenix, Arizona; Bozeman, Montana; Ogden, Utah; Grand Junction, Colorado; and Pasco, Washington. The airline primarily serves smaller, underserved airports that are often overlooked by larger airlines.

Operating a fleet of Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, Avelo currently serves a total of 37 popular destinations across the U.S.

The carrier operates from its five bases at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Southern Connecticut’s Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN), Orlando International Airport (MCO), the Delaware Valley’s Wilmington Airport (ILG) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).

With the addition of the three new routes, including the opening up of operations at Mobile International airport, the US low-cost carrier continues its progressive expansion of its non-stop US route network.

Last month Avelo Airlines also announced the addition of three services into Texas, Virginia, and Colorado.

March 10, 2023 0 comment

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