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Big Sky Airlines Announces Fleet Modernization Program
January 26, 2005
Big Sky Transportation Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of MAIR Holdings, Inc.
(NASDAQ: MAIR) today announced that Big Sky Airlines will begin a fleet modernization program through the introduction of Beechcraft B1900D aircraft. Big Sky expects to begin flying the B1900D aircraft during March 2005. The current fleet of Fairchild Metro aircraft will be retired during the remainder of 2005.
Big Sky Airlines will lease 10 B1900D aircraft from Mesa Airlines, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Mesa Air Group, Inc.
(NASDAQ: MESA) of Phoenix, Arizona. The aircraft are currently operated by its subsidiary, Air Midwest, Inc.
The true stand-up-and-walk-through cabin of the Beech 1900D offers 19 passengers exceptional head, shoulder and leg room – not to mention a window and aisle seat wrapped into one. And because it’s a turboprop, the 1900D provides reliable, comfortable and efficient service.
“Big Sky is looking forward to the benefits that our customers will experience the first time they ride on one of our B1900D aircraft,” said Craig Denney, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “This is an exciting time for Big Sky and the communities we serve. We plan to initiate service between Sheridan, Wyoming and both Denver and Billings, on April 3, 2005 with B1900D aircraft." The Sheridan, Wyoming route was recently awarded to Big Sky under the U.S. Department of Transportation's Essential Air Service Program.
Denney said, “We will announce our schedules and fares for our new Sheridan service in the near future.” He added, “Our entire workforce is excited to be participating in the fleet modernization program, it is truly a momentous time for Big Sky.” About Big Sky Transportation Co.
Big Sky Airlines serves 18 cities in Montana, North Dakota, Idaho and Washington. On February 5th, the company will begin service to Portland, Oregon and on April 3rd will begin service to both Sheridan, Wyoming and Denver, Colorado. All flights are currently operated with 19 seat Fairchild Metro aircraft. Big Sky Airlines operates as a code sharing and frequent flier program partner with Alaska/Horizon Airlines, Northwest Airlines and America West Airlines, which allows our customers the convenience of traveling with one ticket, through baggage checking and economical through fares to destinations throughout the world.