Lakeland Linder International Airport won’t see a sudden uptick in commercial passenger flights as a result of the Federal Aviation Administration’s flight cuts.
Kris Hallstrand, Lakeland’s airport director, said Lakeland Linder will continue its normal operations as of about 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6.
Hallstrand had previously told The Ledger that the airport was in conversations with low-budget carrier Avelo Airlines about serving as an “alternative airport” during the FAA cuts. Avelo operates flights out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tampa International Airport (TPA), two airports directly impacted by the FAA’s 10% flight reduction.
But Lakeland’s airport put out an official statement regarding the FAA cuts on its social media platform.
“Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) is not among the airports affected by the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) decision to reduce air traffic by 10% across high-volume markets,” begins its Facebook post made Nov. 6. “None of our flights operated by Avelo Airlines are impacted. However, we still encourage all passengers to check directly with Avelo Airlines prior to arriving at the airport for the most up-to-date flight information.”
Avelo Airlines has a travel advisory statement posted on its website stating most of its routes will be unaffected, but that they will “carefully assess flights in and out of these airports and make thoughtful schedule changes that support the FAA’s efforts and minimize disruptions to customers.”
The Ledger has attempted to reach Avelo directly via email and phone calls for additional details, without any immediate response.
