Statement from Governor LePage on Portland International Jetport and Southwest Airlines

For Immediate Release: Monday, January 23, 2012

Contacts: Adrienne Bennett (207) 287-2531

Statement from Governor LePage on Portland International Jetport and Southwest Airlines

Portland International Jetport officials hopeful more jobs and tourists will follow announcement

AUGUSTA – The following statement was released from Governor Paul LePage regarding the recent announcement Portland International Jetport officials released confirming Southwest Airlines commitment to the City of Portland.

“I am pleased to hear that Portland International Jetport made the competitive list of AirTran Airways locations that will continue to be served during the merger with Southwest.” said Governor LePage on Monday. “The potential for expanded routes and more competitive fares is great news for the City of Portland as well as the rest of the state and certainly increases the possibility of more jobs at the Jetport. As the Jetport continues to grow, it creates jobs, provides additional flight options for customers and makes it easier to sell Maine as a destination for job creators.” 

The Governor applauded the decision by Southwest Airlines and said their decision to continue service based on the importance of the City of Portland as well as its strong market is another indicator that Maine is making it easier for businesses to succeed.