The hum of a jet engine a sound many in Broome County thought they’d never hear again. For the first time in two decades a new airline is calling Greater Binghamton home in Avelo Air.
With flights to and from Orlando International, it’s truly a dream come true for so many across Southern Tier.
“I think one of the big things since Avelo was announced is it really brought that excitement back. And goodness gracious, if it's not like the best time of year to go somewhere where it's warm. With direct flights, we couldn't ask for a better time,” said Mark Heefner, Greater Binghamton Airport commissioner of aviation.
The 737 houses 189 passengers and flys to and from Orlando in roughly two hours. For Avelo, the mission is targeting smaller airports with the goal of providing an alternative.
“We were looking for some new places, smaller cities that had didn't have much air service to begin with. And Binghamton really fits the bill. So we're excited to make Binghamton our first New York cities in the history of the company," said Travis Christ, Avelo Airlines head of marketing.
And even the pilots are excited to be a part of the history.
“It's fantastic. I mean, it's it's very interesting just to come to a smaller field, you know, in terms of our business model and so forth. It's great. I think it's wonderful,” said Sand Stubing, Avelo Air Pilot.
Up until this point, BGM offered just one Delta flight a day to Detroit. Now, with service to La Guardia on the way and this Orlando flight, commissioner Mark Heefner says this could be the start of much more.
“There's only growth from here. So as long as our community continues to support this flight, we have the opportunity to add more flights. So support what we have to Orlando right now. Book your tickets available, eircom. And we have the opportunity to have more flights,” said Heefner.
For the time being, flights are being offered for just $59 each way.
The Greater Binghamton airport is also preparing for a massive renovation set to take place in the coming months.