Alliance President Comments on
Direct Air Service to New York City

"Although we are only 21 days into the new year, today’s announcement by American Eagle Airlines to launch direct air service between Charleston and New York City’s LaGuardia Airport will mark one of the most important dates in 2009 for our city and the State of West Virginia," said Matt Ballard, president and CEO of the Charleston Area Alliance.

"This will open a world of opportunity for area residents and business people, who now will have direct access to the financial and cultural capital of the world. The new service will also promote economic development because the Mountain State will be much more accessible to businesses considering relocation or expansion and to tourists. Because international companies considering expansion into U.S. markets will find it easier to get here, this American Eagle flight will also boost foreign direct investment in our region.

"The Charleston Area Alliance extends its appreciation to American Eagle and its congratulations to the Yeager Airport Board, Yeager Director Rick Atkinson and his team, the Kanawha County Commission, the City of Charleston and Sen. Rockefeller for their efforts to help bring the world to West Virginia. Our future is brighter thanks to their hard work."