"Richmond Airport lands JetBlue service"

Wednesday, October 12, 2005

Richmond Airport lands JetBlue service
Officials hope discount carrier's low fares will help attract more
businesses to the capitol. 
By MICHAEL ZITZ
The Fredericksburg (VA) Free Lance-Star


Richmond International Airport is adding red-hot discount airline JetBlue to
its lineup of carriers, providing Virginia travelers with another low-cost
option for trips to New York and Boston. 

Service from Richmond to New York's JFK Airport will begin March 31 and cost
from $59 to $134 one way. Service from Richmond to Boston's Logan Airport
starts April 6 and will cost from $69 to $144 each way.

"Bringing New York into the picture is pretty huge," said Troy M. Bell,
director of marketing & air service development for Richmond International
Airport.

"[Richmond to New York] fares have been much higher than what's been
available to surrounding communities," he said. "And there's a lot of
synergy between the Richmond region and New York."

New York is the top destination for travelers flying out of Richmond. 

Other routes are likely to be added later, Bell said, based on the level of
success JetBlue has in Richmond.

Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce President Jim Dunn predicted JetBlue
service will help attract new employers to the Richmond area. Easy access to
affordable transportation often is a prime factor in business relocation
decisions.

Gov. Mark R. Warner had been trying for two years to lure JetBlue--known for
its large leather seats and 36 channels of in-flight satellite DirecTV
service for each individual passenger.

The state's congressional delegation was also involved in the effort. 

Rep. Eric Cantor, R-7th, who has helped Richmond International get $1
million in federal funds to pursue discount carriers, said in a statement,
"This is great news for families and employers in Richmond. Adding another
low-cost carrier to RIC will keep fares low and competitive.

"I will continue to work with local and airport officials to bring more
carriers and more competition to RIC," Cantor said. "An airport that is both
affordable and easily accessible will serve as a magnet for jobs and
economic growth."

AirTran Airways became Richmond International Airport's first discount
airline earlier this year. JetBlue is the second.

Bell said Richmond International continues to pursue Southwest Airlines,
another discount carrier.

Over 2.8 million passengers are expected to fly in and out of Richmond
International Airport in 2005.

The airport is in the final phase of a capital improvement program,
including construction of a new 170,000-square-foot bi-level terminal.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Richmond was the fourth
most expensive airport to fly out of in the country in 2003. In some
markets, adding discount air carriers has caused other airlines to lower
their fares.


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