Officials aren't disclosing the name of the airline that's considering Melbourne but these details are known:
- It has been assigned a economic development code, allowed under state statutes, so negotiations can take place in private for a designated period. The code for the operation is "Beach Paradise."
- The carrier doesn't currently service the state, and Melbourne International would be its gateway into Florida.
- The carrier is proposing, initially, non-stop, weekly international service from — an unknown destination — on a 70-seat aircraft. The arrangement is seasonal for now but could grow more frequent, and with larger aircraft, as the flights mature at Melbourne International.
"This is a milestone for the airport," said Greg Donovan, executive director at Melbourne International, winning a measure of applause after announcing the news at the monthly airport authority meeting.
He described the carrier as "a very competent and award-winning airline."
The name of the airline is expected to be announced within the next 10 days.
Melbourne International currently boasts two major domestic carriers, Delta Air Lines and US Airways. Wednesday's deal opens the door to international service from Melbourne.
Airport officials also are in serious discussions with two other international carriers to provide service to Melbourne.
"We're going all now on international, rather than dabbling," said authority member Scott Mikuen, noting that one international carrier is a break-even financial scenario for the airport.
"This will bring returns but we need to go out and get No. 2 and No. 3 quickly," he said.
Prior to approving the ground services agreement, authority members unanimously agreed to install a new passenger boarding bridge for the airport's Federal Inspection Building. That's where international travelers would first go after departing a plane at the Melbourne airport. The cost of the bridge is listed at $974,838.
Source: http://www.floridatoday.com
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