SCHUMER ANNOUNCES: FEDERAL DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION CHOOSES CAPE AIR TO CONTINUE ESSENTIAL AIR PASSENGER SERVICE TO MASSENA & NORTH COUNTRY RESIDENTS – FEDS WILL PROVIDE MORE THAN $4.7 MILLION IN FUNDING TO MAINTAIN SERVICE

These Connections Will Keep Open Air Travel Options for Passengers in Central New York & the North Country – Contract With Cape Air to Continue Through 2017 

Schumer: At Locals' Request, Cape Air Will Keep Serving The North Country

Today, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has re-selected Cape Air to provide essential air service (EAS) to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) via Albany International Airport (ALB) at Massena, New York (MSS). Schumer explained that the EAS program was put in place to provide small communities with access to the national air transportation system. As a result of this selection, residents of the North Country will have access to the Cities of Albany and Boston and, therefore, many more locations and transit centers. Schumer said that the DOT will provide $4,781,897 in federal funds to make this service a reality through 2017.

“Making sure the airports that serve small communities throughout Upstate New York and the North Country have the resources they need to succeed has always been a top priority of mine. This federal funding and the re-selection of Cape Air as the provider of essential passenger service from Massena to Albany and Boston will enable residents in Massena and surrounding areas to access major cities and transit hubs throughout the state and country,” said Schumer. “Continued air service is critical to growing the local economy and welcoming visitors to the North Country.”

"We are very grateful for the advocacy of Senator Schumer on behalf of Massena and its Essential Air Service provider, Cape Air. Cape Air's continued service will keep things running smoothly here, a benefit to the airport and passengers alike," said Joe Gray, Massena Town Supervisor.

As a result of the selection of Cape Air as the EAS provider for Massena Airport, it will continue using 9-passenger Cessna 402 aircraft for the two-year term from April 1, 2015, through March 30, 2017.  The annual subsidy rates are $2,608,773 for the first year, and $2,713,124 for the second year. Schumer has long been a supporter of providing funding to the Massena Airport and airports in small communities throughout New York State.

The EAS program was established as a safety net for the smaller and more isolated communities across the country that had scheduled air service at the time the ADA was passed in 1978. When negotiating subsidy rates with carriers to provide EAS, the Department generally establishes two-year contracts.  This allows for the competitive bidding process to keep subsidy costs in check and to give communities and the Department opportunities to switch carriers if appropriate.

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