Okaloosa Regional Airport launched its newest flight Wednesday.
For passengers, it’s a direct link to one of the world’s busiest airports. For Okaloosa Regional and the county, it could be a gateway to more airlines and more economic opportunities.
American Eagle began direct flights from Okaloosa Regional to Chicago’s O’Hare Airport on Wednesday afternoon.
Initially, there will be one flight per day, but airport officials will increase the number if it’s successful.
Okaloosa County Airports Director Jerry Sealy said first-day bookings were at 84 percent capacity.
“We’ve been trying to get direct service to the North and Northeast for a long time,” he said. “This is the culmination of 10 years of work.”
Sealy said the direct flight to Chicago is one of the biggest steps the airport has taken in recent years.
He said he was encouraged by the success of American Eagle flights to Dallas. They have grown from two flights per day to six in just a few years.
Chicago is a popular destination, and it makes sense to have a direct flight, Sealy said.
Larry Sassano, president of the Economic Development Council of Okaloosa County, said the new route will make it easier for site-scouting consultants to get to the county to eye land for aerospace, information technology or life sciences businesses.
“It gives us a direct link and a reasonable price to the Midwest market,” he said. “It helps them (consultants) get more familiar with the area.”
It also makes the airport more attractive to large carriers, Sassano added. The airport has made a push in recent years to attract more airlines.
Some passengers waiting for the maiden flight ate complimentary Chicago-style hot dogs while others sat quietly with their baggage.
Tara Sutherland used to drive from Nashville to the Emerald Coast to visit friends. Although the new flight will take her to Chicago and then to her home, she said the price lured her to give it a try.
Round-trip fares average $205, according to county officials.
Eric Edge was on his way home to Chicago after visiting his parents in Santa Rosa Beach.
Previously, he had to change planes in Atlanta, which added two or three hours to his travel time, Edge said.
“It’s nice to have a quick way to get there and back,” Edge said of the new flight. “It’s not a long distance, so it’ll be a lot easier.”
WINDY CITY FLIGHTS
American Eagle will leave Okaloosa Regional Airport at 3:35 p.m. each day and arrive in Chicago at 6:10 p.m. It will depart the Windy City at noon and return to Okaloosa Regional at 3:10 p.m.
The average round-trip fare is $205, according to Okaloosa County officials.
Northwest Florida Daily News
Click here for more...