November 1, 1999
Immediate Release
Doug Myers
518-242-2222

Albany NY -- (November 1, 1999) - - Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority today welcomed the arrival of Regional Jet service to the Albany International Airport.

"The speed and comfort of Regional Jets will add an important new level of service for both business and leisure travelers that use the Albany International Airport," said Rev. Michael A. Farano. "We believe the arrival of the Regional Jets will further stimulate passenger traffic and provide our flyers with improved access to distant hubs."

The Regional Jets will replace several turbo prop planes now being flown by United Express and Continental Express. United Express Regional Jets will operate between Albany and Washington Dulles International Airport. United Express also announced it has increased the number of daily flights between Albany and Washington Dulles from five to six.

"We are pleased to be able to upgrade our schedule to offer Regional Jet service to customers in the Albany area," said Angie Shermer, United Express/ACA Vice President of Sales. "Now, business and leisure travelers have their choice of the best possible connections to the worldwide United network through Washington Dulles or Chicago O'Hare, providing convenient access to destinations across the country and the world.

Continental Express Regional Jets will operate between Albany, Newark and Cleveland. Continental Express will serve Albany International Airport with the Embraer Regional Jet manufactured in Brazil. The aircraft includes a fully equipped galley, spacious lavatory and carry-on luggage storage. The aircraft can cruise at speeds similar to large aircraft at altitudes of up to 37,000 feet. Continental Express serves more than six million customers annually with more than 900 departures to more than 90 cities.

"This new generation of fast and reliable aircraft has been proven to increase competition," said Rev. Farano. "We know from experience that competition has worked to the benefit of Albany passengers and the region's economy through reduced fares and improved service."

Regional Jets typically fly at 500 miles per hour or more and at altitudes equal to that of larger jet aircraft. Their speed and performance provide an added level of comfort to the traveler and offer quicker access to connecting national and international flights.

Regional Jet connections from smaller markets have been credited in part for a 29% increase in demand for longer-haul domestic and international service at Dulles International Airport. In the future, RJ's may allow small and medium size communities to receive point-to-point service, bypassing some large hub airports.

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