Two stories over the weekend highlighted the challenge and struggle to secure commercial air service for our destinations.
From India, community boosters in Jaisalmer are protesting the government's failure to secure air service. They breathlessly point to the fact that charter airlines currently bring 100 flights a year to their airport. But, ummm, that's just 2 a week. If private sector airlines saw an opportunity, they'd be on it in a flash.
Then there is the unfortunate news out of Topeka that United has decided to discontinue service to Kansas' Capital City. After just 9 months.
And, after roughly $2 million in subsidization. In just 6 months.
Now, I totally get the need for commercial air to bolster a community's viability as a nextgen hub of commerce and creativity. But $2 million?
Here's a suggestion: If you've got $2 million to burn and an international airport an hour or so away...I'd invest it in some tricked out shuttles or buses (with wi-fi, drinks, snacks and lotsa room to work) for business people to access the real airport. They'll be able to get work done, enjoy the ride and skip the connection hassle.
And, for those pitching Topeka as cool destination for entrepreneurs, I'd think such a quality of life asset would be a cool offering.
Cooler than saying you have two flights a day on a carrier that breaks guitars.
Just a thought.
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