Interesting tidbit

From yesterday's Central Pennsylvania Business Journal:

HIA deal with low-cost carrier sours
If things went according to plan, Harrisburg International Airport would have had a low-cost airline in May 2006. But things did not go according to plan. Airport officials have been in talks for more than four years with Orlando-based AirTran Airways. The airline committed to offering three to four daily flights out of HIA starting in May. But more than a week ago, AirTran pulled out of the deal, citing financial concerns. Members of The Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority board were frustrated and disappointed at a meeting this morning. "We had moved forward and had contacted a few people and all of a sudden, they made a business decision," said David MacIntosh, board member. "Although we were very much disappointed, I think we understand what’s going on in the airline industry today. It’s all about profit." Traffic out of HIA was down 5.9 percent in 2005 compared with 2004. The airport also has struggled to lease its former terminal building, still sitting empty on HIA property. The SARAA board has decided to sign an options agreement with Harrisburg Regional Chamber & Capital Region Economic Development Corp. to help find a tenant. - Julia Taylor