Fri, Dec 15, 2023
Surf Air Mobility Has Agreed To Begin A Scheduled Commuter Air Service
Surf Air Mobility has agreed to begin a scheduled commuter air service between West Lafayette/Purdue University Airport and Chicago O’Hare Airport, targeting a starting date in “early second quarter 2024”.
The operation will be supported by funding from Purdue University, who will provide funds to support the establishment and ongoing operations. In the beginning, the flights will be run by Southern Airways Express, an airline subsidiary of Surf Air Mobility.
The commuter line is aimed at providing the students, faculty, staff, and families of the West Lafayette region with “easier, faster connections to the world via the 4th busiest airport in America” using the “underutilized regional airport immediately adjacent to Purdue’s campus.” With air service directing into Lafayette, O’Hare travelers will be able to “skip the multi-hour drive and fly directly to West Lafayette on one of up to four daily flights.”
Current plans point to 24 weekly round trip flights, bringing back scheduled air service back to the route for the first time in almost 20 years. The connections offered through Southern Airways will also help to provide “seamless connection experience” at the hub, including single-purchase ticketing through United, American Airlines, and Alaska Air. Flights will be completed using Cessna Caravans, with 9 pax on each flight. Purdue will provide its refurbished passenger terminal, hangar space, and ramp access for Southern Airways personnel, with additional job chances for both pre- and post-graduation students.
“Today’s announcement is a win for all Lafayette and West Lafayette area residents,” said Rob Wynkoop, Purdue vice president for administrative operations. “No longer will we have to deal with the uncertainty of the long drive to take advantage of all the flights and destinations that O’Hare has to offer. Passengers will save money and time while being able to support their local airport. With new airline service from Southern and the new passenger terminal coming next year, it is an exciting time for the Purdue University Airport.”
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