Columbia’s city manager is praising the announcement of American Airlines that they will begin daily nonstop service from Columbia Regional Airport (COU) to Charlotte in June.
City manager De’Carlon Seewood tells 939 the Eagle this is exciting, noting that Charlotte has been a destination that regional travelers have repeatedly expressed interest in:
“Being able to get to Charlotte will allow us to have so many opportunities and so many additional connections. And so I’m excited. I’ve been hoping for Charlotte for a long time. So getting here and landing it … this is a great thing for Columbia, great thing for COU, great thing for the region,” Mr. Seewood says.
UM System President Dr. Mun Choi also praises the new flights, saying expanded air service is a tremendous benefit to the university and to the broader community. Tickets for the new flights will go on sale on Monday.
Columbia Regional Airport (COU) has been a priority for city manager Seewood in his proposed budgets. He describes the planned new flights to Charlotte as an important milestone for Columbia Regional Airport and a win for area travelers:
“I think the one thing that helps us when we try to go out and get additional airlines is that we have so many community partners that are part of this who say hey it’s important for us. And if we can get flights to Charlotte it will just enhance our operations, enhance economic development for the city,” says Mr. Seewood.
Mr. Seewood also says COU’s impact extends well beyond Columbia. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is American’s second-largest hub with service to more than 170 destinations.