Today we are here to announce an increased partnership with Northwest Airlines. With this partnership, comes a new direct flight from Memphis to Wichita. This is a welcome addition of travel choices citizens enjoy at Mid-Continent Airport. I am so pleased Northwest recognizes the growth that Wichita is experiencing. Convenient, affordable air service is vital for Wichita. Increasing options, quality of service and improving prices continue to be major goals for myself, the Wichita City Council and the dedicated citizens serving on the Air Service Task Force.
There are two important things about this additional flight. First, it is jet service - and not just any jet, we’ll hear more about this later--but I believe jet service is important to many, many businesses and pleasure travelers. Second, the flight goes to Memphis. The Memphis International Airport is a great airport with a vast menu of air services options and connections. Wichita travelers will be able to get anywhere they want to go from the Memphis airport. And the Federal Aviation Administration has rated the Memphis International Airport as the number one on-time hub airport for 1999 and 2000.
This new service will be a great benefit to both business travelers and leisure travelers. I think it also confirms that our efforts to market Wichita Mid-Continent Airport and seek expanded air service, while still in the very early stages, are paying off.
This announcement of an additional daily flight to Memphis is wonderful news indeed...who wants to hop a quick flight down for some Memphis barbeque?