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As a result of the recently-approved deal between US Airways and Delta, the two airlines will swap significant numbers of operational slots in New York (LaGuardia) and Washington-National. The swap will give Delta a much bigger presence at LaGuardia while US Airways will increase its presence in Washington. The two airlines are currently re-working their schedules to reflect these changes.

While Delta is monitoring the New York market and is ready to respond to opportunities for additional routes, their initial plan does not include a continuation of US Airways’ service between Ithaca and LaGuardia. As a result, the non-stop service between Ithaca and LaGuardia will cease on March 24.

Airline passengers currently using LaGuardia to access New York City can still get to the city by flying on Continental Airlines to Newark.

Asked about this change, Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport Manager Bob Nicholas said, “Actually, when flying to New York City, I have found that Newark is a better option than LaGuardia. Public transportation at Newark is excellent. You have the option of the New Jersey Transit train that goes from the airport to Penn Station, or the Newark Express Bus, which stops outside the terminal and leaves every 15 minutes. Both options will get you into Manhattan within about an hour of your aircraft arrival.”

Those passengers currently using LaGuardia to access the air shuttle services to Boston and Washington can make their connections by flying from Ithaca to Philadelphia where flights serve both destinations on a regular basis. The airport hopes to get non-stop service to Washington by US Airways later in the year, but at this point no firm announcements have been made.

The Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport supports the community's continued active efforts to improve air service. Bob Nicholas, and Air Services Board Chair Michael Stamm plan to meet with US Airways officials at their  Phoenix headquarters to discuss bringing new service from Ithaca to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, DC.

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