Grant may lead to nonstop service from Tri-Cities Airport to Chicago O’Hare

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Tri-Cities Airporthas received a $900,000 grant that will be used to incentivize an air carrier to provide nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) is one of 20 airports from across the United  States to be awarded a Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP) grant  from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The $900,000 grant will be used to incentivize an  air carrier to provide nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).  

The SCASDP grant will allow the TCAA to provide a minimum revenue guarantee (MRG), start-up  costs, and marketing support to an airline partner for new air service to the Chicago hub. 

“We are excited to be awarded the SCASDP grant and the opportunity it provides for our region,”  said Gene Cossey, Executive Director of Tri-Cities Airport. “The grant can help us recruit an  airline to provide this important connection for our community, and ultimately help stimulate  additional economic growth for our region. It is important to note the grant is not a guarantee of  service to Chicago. However, it is a new tool in our toolbox as we continue to persistently market  the Chicago opportunity to carriers.”  

The grant application process was highly competitive, with up to $15 million in funding available for no more than 40 communities.

“I am thrilled to have played a role in supporting the possible establishment of a direct flight  between the Tri-Cities Airport and Chicago through the Small Community Air Service  Development Program grant,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Improving the lives of  residents in East Tennessee remains my top priority as a legislator. A nonstop flight would  enhance convenience for travelers, bolster tourism, and strengthen our business community.”

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