Tester: Montana small businesses will benefit from new flights

(U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement after Allegiant Air announced that it will offer direct flights from Kalispell, Bozeman, Missoula, and Billings to Oakland, Calif., connecting Montanans with new opportunities across the San Francisco Bay Area and the West Coast:

“No matter where I go, folks tell me that more connections between the Big Sky State and the rest of the country are critical to Montana’s economy. Improved travel opportunities will help Montana small businesses expand and allow more visitors to enjoy Montana. I look forward to working with Allegiant and other airlines looking to bring their business to the Treasure State.”

Allegiant Air plans to begin service to Oakland in April. Currently, Allegiant offers direct service from Montana to Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.

“Montana is very reliant on efficient and affordable air travel,” said Brian Sprenger, Director of Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. “Allegiant’s new service to the Bay Area will connect Montana to Northern California’s dynamic economy thanks to affordable fares and non-stop flights.”

Tester consistently pushes increased air service as a way to grow Montana’s economy. In December, he called for more flights to eastern Montana to keep pace with demand in the Bakken oil field. In November, Tester successfully fought against burdensome new taxes and regulations on general aviation.

-30-