07.19.16

Hoeven Requests DOT Expedite Process to Award Contract for New Air Service at Dickinson Airport

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven is requesting that U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Anthony Foxx expedite the agency’s essential air service (EAS) review process and award a contract as soon as possible for new air service at Dickinson Airport. In light of United Airlines announcement that it will discontinue air service, DOT issued a request for airlines to submit proposals by August 15 to fulfill the EAS contract and provide air service to Dickinson.

“It is imperative that we ensure the continuation of commercial air service for Dickinson and the region. This service is necessary to continue the economic viability of the region and to meet the needs of the traveling public,” Hoeven wrote in a letter to Foxx.

“In order to ensure that there is not a disruption in scheduled air service at the Dickinson Airport, I urge you to conduct an expedited review of the proposals for the EAS program in Dickinson following the August 15, 2016, submission deadline and make a prompt award of the contract for the program to the selected airline following this review.”

United Airlines currently provides twice-daily nonstop service between Dickinson and Denver, Co. However, on June 29, United Airlines gave notice that they plan to discontinue service effective September 27. However, DOT has ordered United to continue service until a new award is made.

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