WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has re-selected Gulfstream International Airlines (Gulfstream) to provide Essential Air Service at Bradford, DuBois, and Oil City/Franklin, Pennsylvania. The duration of the contract will last from October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2012.
In 1978 the commercial airline industry was deregulated. To ensure continued access to the national air transportation system, Congress created the Essential Air Service (EAS) Program, which provides a minimum level of service required at each eligible community.
“I commend all three of these communities – Bradford, Dubois, and Franklin – for taking such an active role in the selection process. In the past Pennsylvania has suffered from severe cutbacks at connecting airports, despite the downturn, the Commonwealth is beginning to see a bright economic horizon as a result of the Marcellus Shale natural gas play. I will continue to work in partnership with these communities and Gulfstream to ensure quality air service” said Thompson.
Gulfstream is the current air service provider at the three Pennsylvania communities and Jamestown, NY. In anticipation of the expiration of its current contract at all four communities, the DOT had requested proposals from carriers interested in serving any or all of the four communities for the two-year period. Following positive comments for Gulfstream’s service from all three communities in Pennsylvania and a July 30, 2010 letter authored by Congressman Thompson and signed by Senators Specter and Casey, the DOT granted an award of $1,087,306 for Bradford, $2,228,996 for DuBois, and $915,101 for Oil City/Franklin for the contract term.
“The Airport Authority is looking forward to continuing to work with Gulfstream. Marcellus Shale development is currently leading to expanded service. Any future opportunities that may arise for new markets and destinations would also create additional passenger growth – and would be greatly welcomed” said Tom Frungillo, Director of Bradford Regional Airport
“The selection of Gulfstream to provide service at DuBois is the absolute best decision DOT could have awarded. With Gulfstream’s maintenance facility at DuBois and continued reliable service, the Tri-County area will be well served over the term of this contract,” added Joel Peterson, Chairman of the Clearfield-Jefferson Counties Regional Airport Authority.
“The renewal of the EAS contract provides a great opportunity for economic development in the region. This investment will retain at least sixty jobs related to the airport. Our legislators were steadfast in their support and now we must do our part and continue to utilize this service,” commented Otho Bell, Manager of Oil City/Franklin.
For Bradford, Gulfstream will continue 18 round trips per week to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. For DuBois and Oil City/Franklin, Gulfstream will continue its 24 round trips per week at DuBois, and 12 round trips per week at Oil City/Franklin, both also to Cleveland.
Tina Kreisher
Communications Director
Rep. Glenn `GT’ Thompson (R-Howard)
