(SitNews) - Alaska Airlines will continue flying jet service to five Southeast Alaska communities for another two years. The federal Department of Transportation has awarded Alaska Airlines the contract to continue flying to Cordova, Gustavus, Yakutat, Petersburg and Wrangell as part of the Essential Air Service program.

“I’d like to thank Southeast Alaska residents for their strong support of our application to continue serving these communities,” said Marilyn Romano, regional vice president for the state of Alaska. “We understand the vital role we play in delivering our customers and cargo to the communities we serve in Southeast Alaska and throughout the state.”

Among the more than 600 hundred community letters supporting Alaska’s bid was Icicle Seafoods Inc., the University of Alaska Southeast, Juneau Chamber of Commerce and Angerman’s Inc. Family Clothing & Sporting Goods Store.

“As the largest employer and air freight shipper in Petersburg, Icicle Seafoods is keenly aware of the community’s need for reliable jet service in Southeast Alaska,” said Kris Norosz, Icicle Seafoods’ director of government affairs and Alaska Airlines Community Advisory Board member. “This contract is a testament to Alaska Airlines’ commitment to the seafood industry and Petersburg and will allow us to serve our customers and fleet.”

Under the renewed Essential Air Service agreement, Alaska Airlines will operate daily flights to Cordova, Yakutat, Petersburg and Wrangell, and daily seasonal flights to Gustavus during the peak travel season from May 26 to Aug. 24, 2013, and June 1 to Aug. 30, 2014.

Alaska Airlines has served Southeast Alaska for several decades. This region has limited road access, leaving it almost completely dependent on aircraft for transportation.

The airline also provides twice-weekly Essential Air Service between Anchorage and Adak, Alaska.

Edited by Mary Kauffman, SitNews

Source of News: 

Alaska Airlines
www.alaskaair.com

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