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Republic Airlines to Operate Embraer 190AR Jets for Midwest Airlines

Dépèche transmise le 21 mai 2009 par Business Wire

Republic Airlines to Operate Embraer 190AR Jets for Midwest Airlines

MILWAUKEE & INDIANAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Midwest Airlines and Republic Airways Holdings (NASDAQ: RJET) today announced an expansion of the air services agreement (ASA) between Midwest Airlines and Republic Airlines to include the addition of new Embraer 190AR jets. The E190s will be configured to seat 100 passengers in a single cabin with seating choice that includes 20 Signature seats. The initial order includes two of the E190AR aircraft.

Midwest will introduce the new service in August and September, and will announce new routes and schedules in the near future.

“The addition of the E190s will provide us new flexibility in terms of our route network and range, with the potential to once again fly nonstop to the West Coast from our Milwaukee hub,” said Timothy E. Hoeksema, Midwest Airlines chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Our expanded agreement with Republic allows us to leverage the cost efficiencies of a large regional airline, while providing our customers with service to more destinations.” Hoeksema said the Embraer aircraft are part of a comprehensive fleet plan currently being finalized by Midwest.

“We are pleased to build on our successful relationship with Midwest Airlines by initiating E190 jet service at Republic,” said Bryan Bedford, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Republic Airways. “These aircraft are as impressive in their performance capabilities as they are in their on-board comfort, and will be a valuable asset in supporting the expansion of the Midwest brand to new routes.” Republic began flying for Midwest under the Midwest Connect brand in October 2008 and currently operates twelve 76-seat Embraer 170 jets. Republic operates a total of 130 E-Jets on behalf of Midwest and its other partners, including Delta, United and US Airways.

With the start of service, Republic Airways will become the first regional airline operator to fly the industry-leading aircraft, which combine a “big jet” feel and impressive mission performance with economically and environmentally friendly operating efficiencies.

The E190 aircraft will be sourced through a 60-month Aircraft Lease Agreement between Republic and GE Commercial Aviation Services LLC (GECAS).

About Midwest
Midwest Airlines features jet service throughout the United States, including Milwaukee’s most daily nonstop flights and best schedule to major destinations. Catering to business travelers and discerning leisure travelers, the airline earned its reputation as “The best care in the air” by providing passengers with impeccable service and onboard amenities at competitive fares. More information is available at midwestairlines.com.

About Republic
Republic Airways Holdings, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is an airline holding company that owns Chautauqua Airlines, Republic Airlines and Shuttle America. The airlines offer scheduled passenger service on approximately 1,200 flights daily to 105 cities in 36 states, Canada, Mexico and Jamaica through airline services agreements with seven U.S. airlines. All of the airlines’ flights are operated under their airline partner brand, such as AmericanConnection, Continental Express, Delta Connection, United Express, Midwest Connect, Mokulele Airlines and US Airways Express. The airlines currently employ approximately 4,500 aviation professionals and operate 215 jets.