Albany, NY (June 8, 2000) - - - Albany International Airport experienced a record increase in passenger enplanements during May according to figures released today by the Albany County Airport Authority. Overall, May passenger enplanements surged 33% over May of 1999.

"The dramatic boost in passenger traffic reflects not only the addition of Southwest Airlines, but the "Southwest Effect" on all the airlines serving Albany International Airport," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority. "The addition of Southwest Airlines has lowered overall fares and has increased the Airport's reach with new passengers traveling 150 miles or more to take advantage of Albany's bargains."

During May of 2000, 125,700 passengers boarded planes at Albany International Airport, up 31,330 from the 94,370 that traveled during May 1999. Airport enplanements in 1999 totaled 1,175,981.

Much of the increase is attributed to the May 7th arrival of Southwest Airlines and what is known as the "Southwest Effect." Airports where Southwest begins service usually experience an immediate and permanent increase in passenger traffic due to the airline's low fares and the subsequent lowering of fares by competing airlines. Southwest flew 22,518 passengers from Albany International Airport during the 25 days the airline operated in May.

"We're witnessing the Southwest Effect on enplanements, concessions, and the demand for rental cars and parking," said Rev. Farano. "Southwest has had a positive impact on our economy and their low fares have opened the world of flight to businesses and families that have never flown before."

During May, all of the major carriers serving Albany International Airport recorded increases in passenger traffic. Without Southwest, combined enplanements increased 9.3%, a further indicator that the presence of Southwest Airlines has had a positive impact on other carriers. Albany International's major carriers include American, Continental, Delta, Northwest, United, US Airways and Southwest.

To accommodate the increase in traffic, the Albany County Airport Authority has approved construction of over 1,800 new parking spaces. A new, 800-car economy lot opened May 7th and was nearly filled within one week. The Airport is currently constructing an 800-car addition to the existing parking garage and a 250-car addition to the new economy lot.

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