Albany NY (August 15, 2002) - - - Average airfares at Albany International Airport continue to fall. Airfare figures released this month by the U.S. Department of Transportation show the average fare to Albany's top 13 destinations fell to 10.5 cents per mile during the third quarter of 2001. That rate puts Albany's fares among the top three airports in the county.

During the first quarter of 2000, just before the introduction of low-fare carrier Southwest Airlines, Albany's fares to its most popular destinations averaged 18.9 cents per mile. The latest Department of Transportation fare survey shows Albany's average fare to its most frequent destinations declined by 45% since the first quarter of 2000.

"Lower fares have a positive impact on the travel budgets and bottom lines of Capital Region businesses," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority. "Albany's trend toward lower fares has offered families and individuals added flexibility in making travel and vacation plans."

The average fare from Albany's top 13 destinations during the third quarter of 2001 was $123 compared to $130 the year before. When compare to other upstate airports in New York, Albany International Airport stands out as the low-fare leader. Average fares at other upstate airports ranged from 12 cents per mile to 26.3 cents per mile.

Albany International Airport currently offers 124 daily departures to 35 non-stop destinations. The Airport's most popular destination continues to be Orlando, Florida. Albany International Airport is served by the following airlines:

• American Delta United
• American Eagle Delta Connection United Express
• Continental Express Northwest US Airways
• Continental Connection Southwest US Airways Express

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