Albany, NY (May 14, 2003) - - - US Airways will introduce regional jet (RJ) service between Albany and Washington’s Reagan National Airport beginning July 7th. The announcement follows US Airways decision to purchase 170 new aircraft to add to its expanding fleet of regional jets.

US Airways will inaugurate the regional jet service on three of its four daily flights to Washington. It is anticipated that US Airways will replace its remaining prop aircraft flight to Washington as addition RJ's become available.

"Regional jets will dramatically cut travel time between Albany and Reagan National Airport while enabling US Airways to reduce operating costs and right-size its Albany fleet to meet existing and new passenger demands," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority. "US Airways' emergence from bankruptcy and its new strategic plan are significant steps toward improving air service to Albany and other upstate communities."

The RJ flight from Albany to Reagan National will take 1 hour 18 minutes, shaving 22 minutes off the prop aircraft schedule. US Airways RJ's will depart Albany at 6:40 a.m., 11:40 a.m. and 5:10 p.m. daily.

US Airways has indicated the smaller, more efficient regional jets are essential for the airline's future success. US Airways currently schedules four turboprop aircraft daily between Albany and Washington under the US Airways Express banner.

Regional Jets fly at the same speed and altitude as larger aircraft and are much more efficient on shorter routes than the slower, propeller driven aircraft. Their ability to fly faster and higher allow them to fly above weather and offer a smoother flight than prop aircraft that fly at lower altitudes.

A number of airlines are replacing a portion or their entire fleet of prop aircraft with RJ's. Currently American Eagle, Continental Express, Delta Connection and Northwest Airlines operate regional jets at Albany International Airport.

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