JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — As of January 16th, no one will be able to fly in or out of the Chautauqua County airport in Jamestown. The U.S. Department of Transportation recently terminated the county's Essential Air Service contract awarded to Southern Airways Express in 2014 that expires in September.

The problem? Not enough people are utilizing the airport. The DOT says fewer than 10 passengers per day are flying out of Jamestown, a fact that airline leaders dispute. 

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello (R) says the county has appealed the DOT's decision and is working with the airline to make several changes. They include basing a plane in Jamestown, creating a more business-friendly schedule and offering an inter-line agreement where passengers can check their bags to their final destination as opposed to grabbing them before their connection.

"If the community is able to make their case, we have total confidence. And we'll jump in full speed ahead to get things back on track," said Mark Cestari, chief commercial officer for Southern Airways Express.

Those who've booked flights after the 16th will be given a full refund or the option to fly out of Bradford.