NEW YORK – Citing the loss of Norwegian Air’s European flights from New York Stewart International Airport resulting in a significant loss of air traffic and passenger volume, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will consider approving “an aggressive new strategy” to attract new and sustainable air service to Stewart.
Norwegian pulled out because the airplanes use used at Stewart and the other US cities it served – the Boeing 737 MAX, remains grounded over safety concerns following two fatal crashes of planes operated by foreign airlines.
The Port Authority Board will consider the proposal when it meets next Thursday.
The plan includes:
- Modernizing Stewart’s air carrier incentive program, to attract and retain new carriers and service to new markets.
- Leveraging partnerships with regional and state agencies, and tourism and trade organizations, to promote the airport as a driver of economic activity.
- Hiring an experienced marketing firm to increase Stewart’s visibility in both the international marketplace and in the Hudson Valley region, and to strengthen the airport’s brand.
- Developing a joint marketing strategy with key businesses and attractions in the Hudson Valley to drive traffic to Stewart.
- Entering into an agreement with a new “best-in-class” airport operator, including an expanded scope for the building of a modern concession program and collaboration with the Port Authority on attracting new air service to Stewart.
The current agreement with AFCO AvPorts Management, the company that runs the day-to-day operations and maintenance at Stewart will expire on October 31, so the Port Authority wants to enter into a new agreement with AvPorts and Future Stewart Partners, LLC.
The Port Authority would also enter into an agreement with Future Stewart Partners to grow the concession business at the passenger terminal. The current contract for concessions expires on June 15, 2020.
