Port board authorizes contract with Atlanta firm to manage Toledo-Florida air service

9/11/2012

Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority directors have authorized agency staff to finalize a contract with an Atlanta firm to manage new air service for four months next winter and spring between Toledo and Fort Myers, Fla.

After a closed-door discussion, the port authority board approved the basic elements of an air-service contract with Aviation Advantage, Inc., under which the port authority would guarantee the cost of flight operations while the flight operator would guarantee operation of the service.

Port officials expect flights between Toledo Express Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport to begin shortly before Christmas and continue through mid-April. Flight schedules, aircraft type, and airline are expected to be announced within two weeks.

RELATED ARTICLE: New Toledo to Florida flights on port agenda

Paul Toth, the port authority’s president, said the special board meeting held today to approve the concept was needed to finalize arrangements promptly.

“They really needed our commitment up front,” he said after the board’s 10-0 vote, with three directors absent.

The resolution gives port authority Chairman William Carroll authority to review and approve the final contract’s terms before its execution, after which details about the planned service will be publicized.