WASHINGTON -- U. S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin (both D-MD) applauded today’s announcement by Hagerstown Regional Airport that Allegiant Air will provide new commercial air service with direct flights between Hagerstown, MD and Orlando, FL This opportunity will not only attract leisure travelers to Western Maryland, but will also help the airport attract and leverage negotiations with additional airlines.

“Hagerstown Airport plays a key role in maintaining Western Maryland’s economy. New commercial air service from Hagerstown will give more Americans access to beautiful Western Maryland, while providing easier access to the area’s historical landmarks and tourist attractions,” said Senator Mikulski. “I have consistently fought for Western Maryland in the U.S. Senate, and I will continue to work to ensure that the Hagerstown Airport has a voice in Washington.”

“Federal infrastructure investments like the Hagerstown runway extension make it possible for Allegiant to connect Western Maryland via commercial jet service to one of America’s top vacation destinations,” said Senator Cardin. “This is a very positive step forward for the economy of Western Maryland and win-win for the entire region and our state.”

The Hagerstown Regional Airport recently completed a $48.5 million runway safety project that included extending the runway from 5,461 feet to 7,000 feet, making it possible to handle jetliners.

Senators Mikulski and Cardin also have played an active role in bringing back scheduled air service to Hagerstown, including their efforts to reinstate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Hagerstown Airport. A proposal, currently pending in the U.S. Senate, would extend the EAS program as part of the larger Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorization bill.