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ALPENA - A combination of local leaders has submitted a letter of support to the Department of Transportation for the appointment of Sky West Airlines to replace Delta Airlines as the primary air service provider at the Alpena County Regional Airport.

The team, made up of local city and county leaders, as well as Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jackie Krawczak and Target Alpena's Jim Klarich, are now asking for the community's comments and support, which will be forwarded to the DOT.

The team had talks earlier this year with Sky West, but couldn't convince the airline to bid. Krawczak said talks resumed some time ago and continued through a special conference in Burbank, Calif., which led to the company bidding in the fourth and final government bid effort. Krawczak said the airline, if chosen, would provide two flights a day - one to Detroit Metro Airport and another to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, which both support Delta hubs. Krawczak said there were several key points that led to supporting Sky West.

"It keeps us in a 50-seat regional jet in Detroit and Minneapolis, as well as keeps us connected with flights with code sharing," she said. "Minneapolis is a great hub and we're thrilled to still have Detroit, and this will allow people to have more options, and having more options is always better."

Krawczak said there has been no indication from the DOT in what direction it may decide to go. Sky West requested the most money in Essential Air Service subsidy, but offers services in line to what currently is available at the airport. Krawczak said from the group's talks with Sky West, if it is approved by the DOT, it could take over service in just a few months. She said she has also had communications with customers of Sky West, and they have praised the airline.

"We believe the transition would take place and they would begin flights sometime this fall," Krawczak said. "I have had many people tell me they have taken flights on Sky West before and they tell us and everything went well. It is a reputable company."

The team submitted its request letter, but it still wants comment of support for the proposed airline. Krawczak said a concerted effort and parallel communications are important to helping bring Sky West to Alpena. She said she would be available to help those who want to send communications to the DOT.

"We are looking for community input and support and letter that says we want Sky West," Krawczak said. "The public comment period is open now, but we don't have an exact time line for how long they will accept it as of yet. People can contact me, and I will help them and even send it out for them."

People wishing to submit a comment of support can contact Jackie Krawczak at the chamber of commerce at 354-4181.

Steve Schulwitz can be reached via e-mail at sschulwitz@thealpenanews.com or by phone at 358-5689.

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Public comment sought for DOT