Washington- Congressman Joe Pitts (PA-16) today applauded the announcement that Lancaster Airport will continue to receive funding through the Essential Air Service (EAS) program through Sept. 30, 2009.

The EAS program was established to help smaller communities connect with larger cities and their airports to facilitate travel, tourism, and economic development.  The decision provides waivers to three airports – Lancaster, Hagerstown, MD, and Brookings, S.D. – so that they can continue meeting the needs of those communities.

The EAS waiver, which was set to expire Tuesday, was attached to the Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act and is expected to be signed into law by the President.  Next year, Congress will consider a four year extension of the program to be included in the FAA reauthorization bill.
 
Congressman Pitts’ statement follows:

“I am pleased that Lancaster Airport will continue to receive funding through this program.  Services provided by the Lancaster Airport play a vital role in the community, and, with the extension of EAS, will continue to provide quality service.  I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that Lancaster Airport receives the support it needs.”

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