Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership

Chamber Confidential

www.metrochamber.com

Volume 4 Number 1 

COMPETING WITH THE BIG BOYS

     Somewhat lost in the media coverage of Monday’s events was an announcement with huge implications.  Beginning in September of 2007, Continental Airlines will offer nonstop service from Jackson International Airport to New York City. The flights will be to and from Newark International Airport.  Newark is an excellent facility for travel plans to the Big Apple.   

This announcement didn’t just happen without a tremendous amount of effort by numerous individuals and organizations.  In fact, the beginnings of the effort can be traced back to you, the business community.  It was your response to a survey inquiring what additional air service was most necessary to add to our current venues that helped focus us on New York City.  Finding a carrier willing to discuss New York service originating from a midsize market such as ours was difficult.  This was especially true in light of the economic conditions facing airlines today. 

Nevertheless, your Chamber worked closely with the Jackson Airport Authority and especially Dirk Vanderleest to solicit potential carriers to offer this destination.  The Chamber, along with the Airport’s help, offered an attractive incentive package to these prospective airlines.  In the end, it was Continental Airlines that accepted the offer.  Each of you by your membership in the Chamber helped make this a reality.  However, even with an encouraging number of potential paying customers and an attractive incentive package, we still needed some help.  That wonderful assistance came from an old friend, Senator Trent Lott.  The Senator’s persuasiveness was the key to sealing the deal.  We all acknowledge how blessed we are to have the strong leadership of our entire delegation in our Nation’s Capitol.  However, on this project and on this day we offer a special thanks to Trent Lott. 

 New York City!!  Everyone wants nonstop service to New York City.  In the world of economic development, you are at a disadvantage on major projects if New York service is not nonstop.  To compete with the major cities on lucrative projects, quality air service, which includes New York, is essential.  Economic development is driven by many factors such as education, workforce, location and quality of life factors.  But never underestimate transportation.

This announcement is another signal to the outside world that we have arrived and are seriously competing with the big boys.

To send any comments regarding this e-memo, click here.