Just 12 days after the President signed the bill into law, the Department of Transportation has already announced guidelines for small air carriers (air craft with less than 71 seats) and new entrant carriers wishing to add direct flights to New York's LaGuardia and JFK Airports and Chicago's O'Hare Airport.
The Department of Transportation procedures minimize the paperwork requirements for airlines taking advantage of the new law . This will allow airlines to improve the quality and efficiency of their schedules to small communities like Burlington, Dubuque, and the Quad Cities going to O'Hare. Six airlines have already announced plans to begin new or expanded service from LaGuardia to a number of cities including Des Moines.
"Because of the quick action by the Department of Transportation, Iowans will hopefully soon enjoy greater choice and eventual savings in air travel. I am hopeful that many airlines will move to take advantage of this great opportunity to expand service from our nation's largest airports to under-served communities. The passage of this bill and the support of the Department of Transportation should mean better airports, more flights, and hopefully lower airfares for Iowans."
"I applaud Secretary Slater's quick and decisive action to implement this important legislation. This is the first step in eventually eliminating the dreaded slot control system that has stifled competition, caused bloated air prices and inconvenienced Iowa travelers. Increased competition should mean better service and lower airfares fro Iowans. The phase-out will give Iowa's communities a better chance to benefit from the eventual elimination of the outdated slot system," Grassley said.