Goodlatte Assures NY Flights To Continue

Direct air service between Roanoke and New York will continue, according to 6th District Congressman Bob Goodlatte, who has been working with the airlines who talked of dropping the service.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) had announced its approval of a “slot-swap” agreement that includes US Air and Delta. This agreement allows carriers to exchange slots they control at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA), which affects flight service from Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA) to New York.

U.S. Airways provides non-stop service between Roanoke and New York. New direct jet service by Delta Air Lines is contingent upon the completion of the Department of Justice’s investigation of the “slot-swap” agreement between Delta Air Lines and US Airways.

“I am extremely pleased that Delta has told me that [it] intends to provide direct jet service between Roanoke and New York,” says Goodlatte.

“Access to the preeminent financial center of the country has proven vital to the employment base of the Roanoke Valley, the business community and economic development efforts. Delta’s intention to maintain a direct flight between Roanoke and New York will ensure that this beneficial relationship continues.”

Goodlatte has met with representatives of Delta Airlines several times over the last year and he, along with other members of the Virginia Congressional Delegation, has written to Transportation Secretary Ray Lahood about the “slot-swap” agreement and its potential affect on smaller communities like Roanoke.