Tri-State Airport numbers

This is from a news release that came in this afternoon. I'm trying to get more information, and I will update this as I do, if I do.

PASSENGER BOARDINGS CONTINUE TO INCREASE AT HTS

Huntington, WV---- Year-to-date passenger boardings are up 67% at Huntington Tri-State Airport (HTS) accordng to recently released Airport statistics. Approximately 3500 more passengers departed HTS in January and February of 2007, compared to the first two months of 2006.

“These numbers clearly reflect that the travelers in the tri-state region are taking advantage of the new lower fares being offered by our carriers,” said Airport Director Larry Salyers, “as well as the direct access to Central Florida, provided by Allegiant Air.”

February’s total passenger boardings increased 71% over February 2006. Delta Connection’s boardings increased by 65% over February 2006, and boardings on US Airways Express increased by 6%. The airport’s newest carrier, Allegiant Air, contributed significantly to the increased traffic by adding an additional 1268 passengers during the month, representing 30% of the total passengers departing from Tri-State Airport.

In addition, Allegiant posted a 94% load factor in February, indicating that on average, 94% of all available seats on each flight were full.

“Travelers have responded very positively to the Allegiant service to Orlando,” said Salyers. “Many of them are driving two and three hours just to take advantage of the low fares and direct service to Central Florida.”

Allegiant’s weekly departures grew from two flights to three flights on February 22. The spring schedule will continue through April 19. The third weekly flight is scheduled to return in June to accommodate summer travelers.