Delta Airlines plans to create a $40 million domestic hub at LaGuardia Airport, following an agreement reached between Delta and US Airways on August 12. The agreement, which is subject to government approval, will allow
Delta to expand its airport facilities and flight operations, allowing an additional two million passengers to travel through the airport each year. The project, which is expected to be completed in 2010, includes plans to expand
Delta’s main terminal facility at LaGuardia, creating 11 additional gates and a new check-in area for Delta customers. “We want to enhance passenger experience and heighten New York City’s standing as the top destination for tourists and business travelers, and these kinds of investments go a long way toward helping us achieve that,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg, in a statement.
In addition to expanding its facilities, Delta expects to more than double the number of nonstop destinations it serves from LaGuardia, by adding or preserving service to more than 30 small- and medium-sized communities.
The airline also plans to provide service to more than a dozen cities not currently served by US Airways.
“Delta’s investment at LaGuardia is good for customers because it provides new convenient service options and ensures continued access to many small communities that our competitors have not historically served,” said Gail Grimmett, Delta’s senior vice president of New York operations, in a statement.
Delta plans to operate larger jets in place of the smaller aircraft used by US Airways, allowing the number of passengers to increase without increasing the total number of flights.
“Delta’s continued commitment to New York is welcome news for the residents and businesses of our State, especially in today’s tough economic climate. We appreciate the thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in annual economic impact Delta has generated for New York in recent years and we look forward to partnering with them as they invest in and increase service throughout the State,” said Governor David Patterson.
In addition to making improvements at LaGuardia Airport, Delta has made major investments at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), including a more than $70 million facility upgrade, the addition of 30 new international routes and the creation of more than 2,000 jobs in New York.
