FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP -- When SkyWest first arrived at Houghton County Airport last March, it looked like the new carrier was in for a turbulent transition. The airline was picked by the Department of Transportation to take over for Delta under the Essential Air Service program.
Of course frequent fliers didn't like the idea of changing connections or lost miles, and other passengers were upset that SkyWest could offer only two daily flights.
"It started rough, but things have smoothed out and gotten a lot better," said airport manager Dennis Hext. I've been pleased with their performance. We're back up to the numbers we were in 2009 and 2010, which is encouraging."
Some passengers have chosen to fly elsewhere, but there are more who seem happy with the new service.
"I’m thankful we have airline service," said Sue Schwenk. "You worry because it's such a small area, so I’m just glad someone's here."
"Chicago is just easier to make better connections, and I actually prefer the airport to Minneapolis," said Denise Vandeville. "I love the change."
SkyWest has a two-year contract under Essential Air Service. Whatever happens after, Hext would prefer to operate without the government subsidy.
"It’s critical for us and it's good, but we can't apply for grants under Essential Air Service, and I think with 50,000 passengers in and out each year, it should be enough for an airline to make money."
Hext says he'd like to see the airport continue to grow and possibly return to three daily flights. In order for that to happen, their numbers will have to be consistent or even better, so Hext encourages all local passengers to fly SkyWest.
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