| October 1st, 2009 Public's help sought to land JetBlue at Manchester Airport CONCORD – A full-court press of community support is on to show JetBlue it should begin flying out of Manchester-Boston Regional Airport this spring. The effort grew from a meeting with JetBlue Airways on Aug. 28, according to Airport Manager Mark Brewer, when the airline dropped "a not-so-subtle hint" that a local demonstration of enthusiasm about the company's arrival would be important. If JetBlue decides to come to Manchester, the low-cost airline would compete directly with the airport's largest carrier, Southwest Airlines, which recently began flying out of Boston's Logan Airport. JetBlue has flown out of Boston for some time and several years ago began offering service out of Portland, Maine. Last month's meeting was part of a long-term effort to bring JetBlue to Manchester, but also to increase the number of seats offered from the airport by all airlines. "There is a direct relationship between the number of seats available and the number of passengers who fly out of Manchester," Brewer said. After the meeting, a letter was sent to the top 50 employers in New Hampshire and every Chamber of Commerce, he said, and at least 50 letters of support were written. JetBlue officials also noted the company's Web site tracks customers and others who want the company to fly to specific communities, Brewer said, so airport officials sent another letter asking companies and chambers to distribute the e-mail link to members, officers and employees. Tuesday night, former Manchester Alderman and current Airport Authority member David Wihby used Facebook to urge friends to send JetBlue e-mails promoting Manchester as a destination. The Manchester Area Chamber of Commerce is also urging its Facebook friends and fans to do the same as has mayoral candidate Ted Gatsas. With airlines reducing seats and fewer passengers flying Manchester, airport officials recently formalized an incentive plan to attract new airlines and existing airlines to begin service to new destinations. Brewer said the incentive plan, which includes help with marketing and the waiver of landing and terminal fees, was given to JetBlue officials in August. Wihby said the airport is trying to get as many airlines here as possible to fill in gaps and fly to new destinations. "If Southwest goes to Boston, maybe JetBlue will come to Manchester," he said. Brewer said JetBlue is also looking at other New England locations. The earliest JetBlue will begin new service is the spring 2011 when new aircraft will be delivered, Brewer said. The company expects to make a decision by late fall, he said. -- Union Leader printed on Thursday, October 1, 2009 Back To News |
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Paid for by Ted Gatsas for Mayor. B. Rivard, Fiscal Agent PO Box 6655, Manchester, NH 03108 603.623.0220
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