Media contact: Simeon Moss
Office: 607-255-2281
E-Mail: sfm4@cornell.edu
ITHACA, N.Y. -- Cornell University Vice President Tommy Bruce has issued the following statement on the Northwest Airlines agreement to bring new air service to Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport:
"Cornell University is excited by this new commuter arrangement with Northwest Airlines, which will expand travel options for the region. This is a boon to the community because it can lead to further expansion of travel options in the future. We are proud to have been part of a local partnership of academic institutions and businesses providing revenue guarantees to ensure the success of this endeavor. In addition, Cornell staff members have been actively involved in the coordination of efforts and the negotiations with Northwest Airlines since this process began."
Bruce pointed out that the university has been an active partner in the Tompkins County Air Service Task Force for a number of years, and Cornell Associate Vice President Richard McDaniel serves on the Task Force Negotiations Subcommittee. That group has coordinated contact and negotiations with Northwest Airlines and other carriers during the seven months leading up to the agreement.
Cornell also has supported, with assistance from Ithaca College, the extensive work of Park Leadership Fellow Charles Hamilton in this effort, Bruce said. Hamilton, a 2004 graduate of the Johnson Graduate School of Management, is an Ithaca resident and has been working full time as a staff person for the Air Service Task Force since last May. He has provided market analysis and business development support, and he has led contact with Northwest Airlines.
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