Jan. 31--The city of Carlsbad's Air Service Committee heard presentations Wednesday from two of the three airlines that want to provide air service to the community through the federal Essential Air Service program that offers a subsidy to the air carrier.
The federal Department of Transportation received three proposals and now is accepting public comment from the community and city officials on their choice for a provider. The public comment deadline is Feb. 8.
At Wednesday's meeting, representative from New Mexico Airlines, the current provider, and start-up airline Boutique Air, explained what they can offer to Carlsbad residents.
New Mexico Airlines offers flights to Albuquerque while Boutique Air says if it is the successful bidder it will offer flights to Albuquerque and to Dallas-Forth Worth.
Daniel Helland, Boutique Air project manager, said in addition to providing pressurized planes, his company will also staff the Cavern City Airport with customer service agents and a station manager.
He said flights to Albuquerque are projected from $49 to $99. Flights to Dallas would range from $69 to $129. He said the airline is working to secure a private facility at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport with shuttle service to the main terminal. In addition, rental car service would also be available for passengers who are staying in Dallas.
New Mexico Airlines Chief Pilot David Jones told the committee appointed by Mayor Dale Janway that the fare structure proposed by Boutique Air is not cost effective. He said his airline has a proven track record after six years of operation in Carlsbad. He said the company's bid proposal to DOT is $1.5 million, while Boutique Air's is in excess of $4 million.
Helland said the DOT has been known to award the essential air service bid to the highest bidder if the community shows a strong preference for the airline.
Jones said that his airline, if its contract is renewed, will offer air service to Los Alamos. He said in the six years New Mexico Airlines has been in operation, its fares have not changed.
Terry and Doug Chandler, the fixed base operators at the airport, told Jones that not having a counter service at the airport is difficult for passengers. In addition, Terry Chandler said the phone often rings off the hook with passengers wanting information or help with their flight.
City Councilwoman Janell Whitlock, a member of the air service committee and Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce retirement director, said retirees complain that the only way they can book a flight is by going online, which some find difficult to do. Jones replied that there is an 800 toll-free number they can call to book a flight and handed out pens with the number imprinted on them.
After further discussion and several more questions to the airline representative from the committee and the public, the committee voted to meet on Feb. 5 to draft the city's comments and get it to the DOT by the Feb. 8 deadline.
New Mexico Airlines essential air service contract is set to expire at the end of May. Helland said if Boutique Air is the successful applicant, it will be good community partner.
Copyright 2013 - Carlsbad Current-Argus, N.M.
