Columbia’s city manager describes United Airlines as a great partner for Columbia Regional Airport (COU) and he’s thrilled that they’ve returned to COU.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Columbia Mayor Pro Tem Nick Foster and Jefferson City Mayor Ron Fitzwater were among those who spoke at Thursday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. City manager De’Carlon Seewood praises the cooperation with Jefferson City, telling 939 the Eagle that the regional approach to economic development is the best way forward:
“The airport is a huge investment not just the city but the region as a whole. Additional flights just adds to that airport. It adds to that vitality. It brings economic development into our community,” Mr. Seewood says.
United is now providing two daily flights to Chicago O’Hare and the daily flight to Denver begins Friday. United offered flights from COU to both cities before suspending service during COVID. City manager Seewood notes the Denver flight is made possible by a $1-million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Leaders from both Columbia and Jefferson City joined Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe on Thursday at Columbia Regional Airport (COU), as they celebrated United Airlines’ return to COU. Jefferson City Mayor Ron Fitzwater says this is welcome news for Jefferson City-area business leaders, state government and for leisure travelers who enjoy skiing in Colorado. Mayor Fitzwater tells 939 the Eagle that flying from COU is also more convenient and saves time and gasoline:
“Going to Kansas City and St. Louis. Safety issues on I-70 especially with all the road construction. The cost of parking around the airport (Lambert) in St. Louis,” Mayor Fitzwater says.
Columbia city manager De’Carlon Seewood agrees with Mayor Fitzwater, noting passengers have said Chicago and Denver are highly sought-after destinations.
Missouri GOP Governor Kehoe and Boone County Democratic Presiding Commissioner Kip Kendrick say United Airlines’ return to COU highlights the importance of bipartisanship and economic development. The two men served together in the Missouri Legislature before being elected to their new roles. Commissioner Kendrick tells 939 the Eagle that the new United flights at COU mean more progress:
“It’s an investment that United is making in the region and the whole mid-Missouri region. But it’s also will equate to jobs. There’s no doubt in my mind that businesses will be attracted here and be retained here because of expanded flight opportunities through United,” Commissioner Kendrick says.
COU manager Michael Parks says United Airlines’ return also connects you to major travel hubs and to a variety of destinations around the world.