Plans to offer flights from Rockford to southwest Florida have fallen through. Chicago-Rockford International Airport director Mike Dunn announced Wednesday that after long and intense negotiations, the airport will NOT be able to provide service to Fort Myers this travel season.
He says the airport couldn't come up with an airline that would offer flights to that area at a competitive price.
Dunn says he’ll continue to work with airlines to offer service to southwest Florida for NEXT vacation season. Earlier this year, flights between Rockford and Fort Myers ended when Direct Air declared bankruptcy.
The Chicago-Rockford International Airport currently has flights to five U.S. cities via Allegiant and Frontier airlines.
Here's the message sent to RFD passengers today from Dunn:
Dear MilesAhead Members: I am sorry to say that after a lot of hard work and long negotiations, we have been unable to secure service for this upcoming travel season between RFD and Southwest Florida. No one is more disappointed than the staff here at RFD. However, having service at a price point that is not competitive with the marketplace and would make ticket fares too expensive for our valued passengers is unacceptable. We will continue to seek out airline partners who will work with the airport for new locations. We will also work hard to find a carrier for next season for Southwest Florida. Again, these partnerships with airlines have to make financial sense not only to the airport but to the flyers who are purchasing tickets. Thank you for your continued support of RFD. Best Regards, Mike Dunn Director Chicago Rockford International Airport
