MONROE, La. (KNOE) – Tuesday was the first day of American Airlines’ new midday flight between Monroe Regional Airport (MLU) and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
The new flight departs MLU at 12:47 p.m., bound for DFW.
“That’s a lot easier. It’s more convenient not having to get up early or take the late flight. Definitely more convenient during the mid-afternoon,” said passenger Shelby Hatfield.
Before the addition, travelers could only choose from three departure times — 5:57 a.m., 10 a.m., or 5:50 p.m.
“Our passengers will have a more, a bigger, larger amount of seats to choose from on whatever their destination is. So it’s going to definitely enhance the airport and enhance our traveling experience for our travelers,” said Charles Butcher, director of Monroe Regional Airport.
Growing demand
The new midday option comes as demand at the airport continues to grow. Butcher said the Meta project nearby is a big part of that.
“And with all the meta project, I think that’s a big factor as well. We’ve got a lot of contractors flying in and other people coming in, and I think that will definitely enhance their traveling experience getting into Monroe,” Butcher said.
Butcher said the new flight was not easy to secure.
“So we’re basically taking a flight away from some other market. They’re not adding airplanes. So, to enhance our market, somebody else is probably losing their flight. So, obviously all we’re concerned about is Monroe, but, we’re thankful that they saw an opportunity there,” he said.
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Passengers are welcoming the change but hope it’s only the start.
“It would definitely be nice for some more, better times and better rates,” Hatfield said.
KNOE asked United Airlines, the only legacy carrier not serving Monroe, whether it has plans to add MLU to its route map. The company did not respond to a request for comment.
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