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As the Airport Director, I frequently receive input and feedback from Corridor residents regarding The Eastern Iowa Airport and I truly appreciate the direct line of communication that has begun to form. Without the feedback, whether a compliment or constructive criticism, it would be difficult to know what is important to our customers, what their perceptions are, and how we can improve the airport in ways that better meet the needs of the airport users and community. While many perceptions are rooted in facts, sometimes those facts change over time, are misunderstood, or are simply left unexplained. The resulting perceptions can then be in conflict with reality. It is my responsibility to engage the community and educate our stakeholders about this great Corridor asset and tool for economic growth. A few perceptions I often hear is that the Airport is a barrier to economic development, the Airport is more expensive than airport x, y, or z, or that you always need to fly through Chicago to get to your final destination. If you’ve heard any of these, or believe them to be true, please take a look at the following facts: No. 1: In a seven-state region there are 55 commercial service airports – The Eastern Iowa Airport is in the top 10 of those airports based on number of passengers served, number of one-stops offered, and number of airlines operating at the facility. (See chart) No. 2: In that seven-state region, only airports at large cities – Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Milwaukee – have service to both coasts. No. 3: Five airlines dispatch 45 flights per day out of Cedar Rapids, flying non-stop to 10 locations. From the hub destinations, one can literally travel anywhere in the world. No. 4: Airfare: Aviation experts consistently report that both business and leisure fares at The Eastern Iowa Airport are competitive in the top markets. Seven states, 55 airports and The Eastern Iowa Airport is in the top 10! Our community has great schools, easy commutes, good jobs, and an airport with far better service than comparable communities. Owners of potential businesses considering a move to the Midwest who: Need a frequent flight schedule, want an Airport where parking is affordable and close to the terminal, where security lines move quickly, and the airlines’ on-time performance far exceeds that at a large hub airport, then The Eastern Iowa Airport in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor should be at the top of their list. No, we do not have service to both coasts, nor do we have Chicago-style traffic jams or other big city problems. No one is saying there isn’t room for improvement at TEIA. We are always looking at ways to serve you better, from customer service improvements to air service enhancements. A new, cell phone waiting lot will open Nov. 1. The lot, which will be located across from the “In Transit” sculpture, will provide a free parking area for those who are waiting to pick up their passenger. This new lot will free up the short-term parking area for those who truly need it and it provide a safe, free spot for people waiting to get the call that their passenger has landed. You will then be able to drive up to the terminal curb, pick up your passenger and be on your way. It’s a time and cost-savings measure that will benefit many of you. There are other amenities found at TEIA, such as free Wi-Fi service throughout the terminal, and improvement projects that include a covered walkway in the paid parking lot, a fully enclosed and expanded B concourse, and other terminal renovations that will look at ways to put the customer first. TEIA is a reflection of the strong economic community surrounding it. It is a product of a vibrant business base that caters to more than 1 million passengers per year. Our incumbent carriers recognize our positive business climate. Our challenge is to work with the Corridor business community to attract new business, including new or enhanced airline service. If you believe we have a good thing here - you’re right. If you don’t – let’s talk. |
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Have a Good Thing Here