Eau Claire, Wisconsin, July 13, 2011 (Press Release) – Total airline passengers at the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport increased 13% for the month of June 2011 compared to June 2010. The 13% increase equates to 2,976 passengers enplaned and deplaned in June 2011 compared to 2,633 passengers in June 2010.
Year to date passenger numbers have increased to 16,065 through June 2011 compared to 12,681 or a 27% increase compared to the same period last year.
Airport Manager Charity Speich attributes the passenger traffic increase to the United Express Airlines all jet service to the Chippewa Valley introduced in March 2010 with flights to Chicago O'Hare and beyond. Speich says, "Airline passengers continued to respond to the lower pricing and greater flexibility of the all jet service to Chicago O'Hare."
Construction on the second phase of the terminal development project is wrapping up at the Airport. The public is welcome to come out for a Grand Opening celebration on July 20 from 8-10 am to view the new passenger boarding bridge, baggage carousel, and other improvements throughout the entire terminal building. Attendees will be able to register for round trip airline tickets for two to Chicago courtesy of United Express.
