With the arrival of Southwest Airlines Flight 2120 from Chicago Midway (MDW) this week, Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) ushered in a new era of air travel as it officially began service at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG).
The carrier is offering eight daily nonstop flights, five between CVG and MDW and three between CVG and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI).
“Before we landed in Cincinnati today, travelers were stuck paying high fares and high fees, but that’s all changing today with our brand, Customer-friendly policies, and no small regional jets,” said Tammy Romo, Southwest’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “We’re at the beginning of our Cincinnati story, and the future looks very bright.”
The arrival of Southwest’s first flight into CVG was greeted by a ceremonial water arch and ribbon-cutting, along with some great giveaways for customers onboard.
Among those customers were 18 children from Chicago. For many of the kids, who are part of a group called “By the Hand Club for Kids,” this was their first airplane ride and visit to another state. The group was also getting the opportunity to take in a Cincinnati Reds baseball game thanks to the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball.
“We’re thrilled to have Southwest join the roster of our airline partners, and that our passengers have another option when traveling to and from CVG,” said Candace McGraw, Chief Executive Officer, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. “We look forward to Southwest’s success and growth in the Tri-State region.”
