KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — There’s some exiting news for those in Southwest Michigan who’ve may have been a bit hesitant to travel by air recently, along with those who’ve been restricted due to cost.
On Thursday, July 28, the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport announced the addition of a new airline service coming soon to travelers, especially those wanting to go to Florida.
Beginning in October, Avelo Airlines will offer non-stop service to Orlando from Kalamazoo with introductory one-way fares starting at $59.00.
Head of Communications for Avelo Airlines Jim Olson says it will be the only airline offering nonstop service from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International to Florida.
“We do lots of market research, and we know that lots of people in this region want to get to Florida, and Orlando was the number one place they told us they wanted to fly if a new airline came here. And so we listened, and today, we’re responding to that demand,” said Olsen
Area leaders and lawmakers were on hand for the announcement to include State Senator Sean McCann and State Representatives Christine Moorse and Julie Rogers.
Olsen went onto say that Airlines prides itself on serving specifically smaller towns as Kalamazoo itself became it’s 29th hub.
“We announced earlier this week Lansing, and also today, Lexington (Kentucky), and today we’re announcing right here in Kalamazoo. And so this community and this airport fit perfectly with our mission of serving secondary, smaller hometown airports that fly to places to sometimes bigger airports like Orlando that people want to fly to,” said Olsen.
Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport director Craig Williams says while the addition of the new airline service is a positive move for both the airport and Kalamazoo community, there will be some work do to in order to get ready for the first flight.
“There are a lot of behind-the-scenes items that need to be taken care of, a lot of coordination with the airline, with our transportation security folks, with FAA, a lot of work that’s not seen by the traveling public. If it’s not seen by the traveling public, we’re doing a good job.”
The first non-stop flight to Orlando from Kalamazoo is scheduled for Wednesday, October 26 at 4:40 p.m. Then beginning Friday, October 28, Avelo will fly to Orlando each Monday and Friday at 8:50 p.m.
Travelers must book their introductory one-way fare of $59.00 by Tuesday, August 2. Airline officials say this fare, along with other bookings, can be made online at AveloAir.com.
