"Another budget airline signs on at Pittsburgh"

Saturday, March 12, 2005

Another budget airline signs on
By Jim Ritchie
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review


Low-fare airline Independence Air will be around for a long time at
Pittsburgh International Airport -- assuming the Washington, D.C., carrier
survives. 

The Allegheny County Airport Authority on Friday unanimously approved a
lease agreement with Independence Air through 2018, making it a signatory
carrier that will pay reduced rates for terminal and ramp space. 

"It's good news," said Earl Hord, an authority board member. "It's another
long-term commitment by an airline." 

Independence Air offers seven daily flights between Pittsburgh International
and Washington Dulles International. Authority Executive Director Kent
George said more than 70 percent of the seats on those flights are sold
daily. 

Independence, owned by FLYi, Inc., reported in February an annual net loss
of $192.2 million in 2004 compared to 2003. The airline is restructuring
after shedding its previous identity as Atlantic Coast Airlines, which
operated commuter flights for United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. 

Independence Air is among a flock of new low-fare airlines recently arriving
at Pittsburgh International. Hooters Air started service in February to
Myrtle Beach, and Southwest Airlines will start daily flights May 4 to four
cities direct and to 31 connecting destinations.


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