Delta Airlines confirmed today that it intends to file a proposal for subsidized service between Meridian and Atlanta by the April 23 deadline set by the Department of Transportation. Delta's plan for future air service to Meridian was announced in a letter from Robert Cortelyou, senior vice president for network planing at Delta, to Meridian Mayor John Robert Smith. Mayor Smith had written to Delta expressing the community's dismay at learning of Delta's announcement last month that it would cease service between Meridian and Atlanta.

"It is Delta's intention to file a proposal for subsidized service between Meridian and Atlanta," Mr. Cortelyou wrote. "We strongly feel that continued service to Delta's Atlanta hub will benefit the Meridian community, and we hope to have your support for our proposal."

When Delta filed its notice of intent to discontinue non-subsidized service, the DOT issued an order prohibiting the suspension of service while it solicits and reviews proposals for replacement service. Delta is now complying with that request, and will continue uninterrupted service between Meridian and Atlanta during this process. The prohibition order was issued because Meridian is designated as an Essential Air Service community.

In addition to Delta, other carriers will have the option to file for subsidized service to and from Meridian. Last month, when Delta announced its intent to discontinue non-subsidized service, company officials blamed escalating fuel costs for the decision.

Maureen Lofton

Assistant for Governmental Affairs

City of Meridian

P.O. Box 1430

Meridian, MS 39302

Phone: (601) 485-1819

FAX: (601)485-1911

e-mail: maureenlofton@meridianms.org