US Airways launches Columbia flights

It’s essential that some smaller American communities are linked to the nation’s air transportation system especially those in the West, Alaska, and stretches of the Midwest where drive distances between cities can be daunting. It’s so essential that the federal government is willing to subsidize the service. That’s the case in Columbia, Missouri (COU), where US Airways Express expects to begin propjet service to both Lambert St. Louis International (STL) and Kansas City (MCI) come October 5.

To make flying more attractive than driving on these routes (fuel prices, wear and tear on car and body), US Airways Express is using “Shuttle Fares”. That means a single, uncomplicated fare for each destination. It doesn’t matter if you walk up at the last minute, or book ahead. There are no restrictions.

The fare from Columbia to St. Louis is $59 one-way. Round-trip, it’s $118. The same rates apply to Columbia to Kansas City. These “Shuttle fares” don’t include taxes and fees.

Air Midwest, a Mesa Airlines subsidiary, will do the flying under the US Airways Express banner. The new flights will help further develop that carrier’s Kansas City hub, bringing the number of cities served under either the US Airways Express or Mesa Airlines names to 13.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler