Big Sky Airlines says a lack of pilots is forcing it to delay re-introduction of scheduled service to Jackson, Tenn., until November. Big Sky President Fred deLeeuw told The Associated Press that an increase in hiring by larger carriers has left regional airlines short of pilots. Big Sky was to take over service to Jackson in May, two months after the FAA shut down RegionsAir for alleged training deficiencies. DeLeeuw said the airline hopes to begin with a partial schedule to Cincinnati in mid-November and move to a full schedule by December. The new airline will have an uphill battle to lure local travelers, however, according to local chamber of commerce president Paul Latture. “I think the service has been so bad for so long people have adapted,” Latture said. “Until we’re able to provide our citizens and give a consumer a choice, a viable choice, people will go elsewhere.”
Pilot Shortage Delays Commercial Service
Key Takeaways:
- Big Sky Airlines is delaying the re-introduction of scheduled service to Jackson, Tennessee, until November due to a shortage of pilots.
- The pilot shortage is attributed to increased hiring by larger carriers, which has left regional airlines struggling to staff flights.
- The airline plans a partial schedule to Cincinnati in mid-November, aiming for a full schedule by December.
- Big Sky faces an uphill battle to attract local travelers who have adapted to poor service and now opt for alternative travel options.
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