APPLICATION UNDER 

SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

DOCKET DOT-OST-2013-0120

SUMMARY INFORMATION

(Note : Only blue shaded areas in Sections A-L can be edited)

All applicants must submit this Summary Information schedule, as the application 

coversheet, a completed form SF424 and the full application proposal on 

http://www.grants.gov

For your preparation convenience, this Summary Information Form is located at

http://www.dot.gov/policy/aviation-policy/small-community-rural-air-service/SCASDP

A. PROVIDE THE LEGAL SPONSOR AND ITS DUN AND BRADSTREET (D&B) DATA UNIVERSAL 

NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBER, INCLUDING +4, EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 

(EIN) OR TAX ID.

Legal Sponsor Name: 

DUNS Number

EIN/TIN

B. LIST THE NAME OF THE COMMUNITY OR CONSORTIUM OF COMMUNITIES APPLYING :

1.

2.

3.

4.

C. PROVIDE THE FULL AIRPORT NAME AND 3-LETTER IATA AIRPORT CODE FOR THE 

APPLICANT(S) AIRPORT(S) (ONLY PROVIDE CODES FOR THE AIRPORT(S) THAT ARE ACTUALLY 

SEEKING SERVICE).

1.

2.

3.

4.

Savannah Airport Commission

059534529000

58-6002854

Savannah, Georgia

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
D. LIST THE 2-DIGIT CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CODE APPLICABLE TO THE SPONSORING 

ORGANIZATION, AND IF A CONSORTIUM, TO EACH PARTICIPATING COMMUNITY.

1.

2.

3.

4.

E. APPLICANT INFORMATION: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

 Not a Consortium Interstate Consortium Intrastate Consortium

 Community now receives subsidized Essential Air Service 

 Community (or Consortium member) previously received a Small Community Air Service 

Development Program (SCASDP) Grant

If previous recipient: Year(s) of grant(s): 

F. PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: (LIST ORGANIZATION NAMES)

PUBLIC PRIVATE

1. 1.

2. 2.

3. 3.

4. 4.

5. 5.

G. PROJECT PROPOSAL: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

 Marketing Upgrade Aircraft New Route

 Travel Bank Service Restoration Subsidy

 Surface Transportation Regional Service Revenue Guarantee

 Launch New Carrier Start-up Cost Offset First Service

 Study Secure Additional Service

 Other (describe)

H. EXISTING LANDING AIDS AT LOCAL AIRPORT: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

 Full ILS Outer/Middle Marker Published Instrument Approach

 Localizer Other (specify) 

GA-01

SC-01

✔

✔

2003

Savannah Airport Commision Visit Savannah

Savannah Economic Development AuthoritySavannah Area Chamber of Commerce

Hilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce

Hilton Head Island Visitor and Convention Bureau

✔

✔ ✔

✔

✔ ✔ ✔

✔
I. PROJECT COST: (ONLY ENTER DATA IN BLUE SHADED AREAS)

LINE DESCRIPTION SUBTOTAL TOTAL AMOUNT

1. Federal amount requested

2. State cash financial contribution

Local cash financial contribution

3a Airport cash funds

3b Non-airport cash funds

3. Total local cash funds (3a + 3b)

4. TOTAL CASH FUNDING (1+2+3)

In-Kind contribution

5a Airport In-Kind contribution**

5b Other In-Kind contribution**

5. TOTAL IN-KIND CONTRIBUTION (5a+5b)

6. TOTAL PROJECT COST (4+5)

J. IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS**

For funds in lines 5a (Airport In-Kind contribution) and 5b (Other In-Kind contribution), please 

describe the source(s) of fund(s) and the value ($) of each. 

K. IS THIS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY STATE UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372

PROCESS? 

a. This application was made available to the state under the Executive Order 12372 

Process for review on (date) 

b. Program is subject to E.O. 12372, but has not been selected by the state for review.

c. Program is not covered by E.O. 12372.

L. IS THE APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT? (IF “YES”, PROVIDE 

EXPLANATION) 

 No Yes (explain)

500,000

0

300,000

600,000

900,000

1,400,000

1,165,060

0

1,165,060

2,565,060

5a. Airport Rents/Fees - $1,082,260 and Airport Advertising - $82,800. Source is Airport 

General Fund

✔

✔
SAVANNAH 

HILTON HEAD ________ I N T E R N A T I 0 N A L 

SAVANNAH 

AIRPORT 

COMMISSION 

CHAIRMAN 

Sylvester C. Formey 

VICE-CHAIRMAN 

Stephen 5. Green 

COMMISSIONERS 

Shirley B. james 

Sheldon Tenenbaum 

Lois C. Wooten 

LEGAL COUNSEL 

James B. Blackburn 

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

Patrick S. Graham, A.A. E. 

ASSISTANT 

EXECUTIVE DIRECTO R 

Gregory B. Kelly, A.A.E. 

July 25, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Enclosed you will find Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's 2013 Small 

Community Air Service Development Grant application. The airport, along with 

our local partners, is seeking $500,000 in grant funding to help re-establish 

quality low-fare air service to SAV. The grant would be used to offset startup and 

operational costs associated with initiation of new nonstop service to Boston. 

Without a low cost carrier in the market, airfares here are currently some of the 

highest in the nation. The airport is currently in discussions with JetBlue Airways 

to bring service to Savannah/Hilton Head International. A cross section of 

stakeholders from both Georgia and South Carolina have teamed together and 

committed nearly $2 million over two years to bring JetBlue to SAV. 

Approximately half of the airport's traffic is bound for Savannah and Coastal 

Georgia, while the other half is headed to Hilton Head Island and Southern South 

Carolina so stakeholders from both communities recognize that SA V is the best 

gateway for low-fare service and jointly support this application. The Convention 

and Visitor Bureaus in each market will be actively involved in the success of 

JetBlue at Savannah/Hilton Head International. 

Thank you in advance for your consideration of our grant application. We are 

certain that the addition of new low-fare service with JetBlue would have a 

significant impact on local tourism and regional economic development. 

:%¥ 

Greg Kelly 

Acting Executive Director 

......._ ___ 400AIRWAYSAVENUE • SAVANNAH.GEORGIA31408 • 912.964.0514 P • 9 12.964.0877 F • WWW.SAVANNAHAIRPORT.COM 
jetBLue· 

27-01 Queens Plaza North 

Long Island City, NY 11101 

jetblue.com 

July 23, 2013 

Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

202-366-0577 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

On behalf of the 15,000 Crewmembers of JetBlue Airways, I am writing to express JetBlue's interest in 

adding air service to Savannah (SAV) from Boston (BOS). JetBlue is currently considering non-stop 

service to Savannah from Boston's Logan airport, with the potential to begin service as early as Spring of 

2014. Additionally, JetBlue is interested in establishing direct service to Savannah from New York City's 

John F. Kennedy airport as well. 

I am confident that the market dynamics of Savannah will fit well with JetBlue's high quality, low fare air 

service and will drive significant increases in travel to Georgia's Southeast coast. In recent years, JetBlue 

has been able to enter markets and reduce fares while simultaneously increasing demand. After JetBlue 

established service from New York City (JFK) to Jacksonville FL (JAX) in June 2006, average fares 

dropped by 22% while daily passenger demand rose 43%. More recently, JetBlue has been very satisfied 

with the new direct service to Charleston, SC (CHS), which began in February 2013. It has already 

experienced the "JetBlue effect" of lowering fares while increasing demand. Our analysis indicates that 

Savannah holds similar new-market potential as Jacksonville and Charleston. I believe JetBlue can lower 

fares and increase demand on Savannah routes to Boston and New York, and I ask for your support in 

communicating JetBlue's interest in Savannah to your Board. 

I greatly appreciate your attention to this important subject. Thank you for your assistance and 

consideration. 

Respectfully, 

Scott Laurence 

Vice President Network Planning & Partnerships 
tlnitrd totes rnetr 

Ms. Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

WASHINGTON, DC 20510 

.J uly 26, 20 13 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department ofTransportation 

Room W86-307 

1200 New Jersey A venue, Southeast 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: CFDA: 20.930 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

We are writing regarding the application submitted by the Savannah/ Hilton Head 

International Airport for the Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant 

administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and its partners arc requesting grant 

funding to help offset operational and startup costs associated with bringing a new airline to the 

Savannah, Georgia-Hilton Head Island. South Carolina, market. Through this grant. the 

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport seeks to stimulate additional tourism and jobs in the 

region. 

We would appreciate your revicvv of this grant application consistent with your existing 

guidelines and policies. If we can assist in any way. please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Very truly yours. 

£, y Chambliss 
Savannah, Hilton Head & The Golden 

Isles 

Application under the: 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

By the Savannah Airport Commission 

For the Savannah Hilton Head International Airport 

Congressional Districts: GA-1 and SC-1 

Dun & Bradstreet Number: 059534529000 

Savannah, Hilton Head & The Golden Isles 
Table of Contents 

2 

Executive Summary 

Regional Impact 

Savannah Tourism Profile 

Hilton Head Tourism Profile 

Golden Isles Tourism Profile 

Economic Potential is Limited by Air Service 

SAV Traffic Has Not Kept Pace 

The SAV Air Service Portfolio Limits Growth 

Impact of Low-Fares - The CHS Comparison 

Boston is an Ideal Low-Fare Market from SAV 

SAV is Ripe for Boston Service 

SAV Air Service Development Strategy 

Intensive Efforts to Improve SAV Air Service 

Incentive Proposal to JetBlue 

Local Commitment 

Program Details 

The Right Choice 

Appendix 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 
Executive Summary 

3 

Proposal 

The 750,000 residents of Savannah, Hilton Head Island and the entire Georgia Coastal region 

have been buffeted by the changing winds of the airline industry over the past decade. The 

departure of AirTran service to Atlanta (ATL) in 2005 had a devastating impact in the market. 

Airfares rose dramatically and traffic fell precipitously. 

Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) was left with only high-fare air service on 

legacy carriers. Most of this service is operated primarily with regional jet equipment (RJ). 

As the cost of fuel increased late in the last decade, RJ economics deteriorated. As a result, 

SAV lost its nonstop air service to Boston (BOS) in 2009. At its peak in 2007, Boston 

provided 109 daily air passengers to SAV. Today that number is down nearly 30%. 

Tourism has gained significant importance in the region over the past two decades. Nearly 

13 million overnight visitors enjoy the region’s attractions annually. However, over 85% of 

those visitors arrive by car. This is a direct consequence of the lack of quality, low-fare 

service at SAV. This is particularly true of the Northeast U.S. markets that have traditionally 

been culturally attracted to the region’s tourism product. 

A cross section of stakeholders from both Georgia and South Carolina have teamed together 

to address this service gap. They have committed nearly $2 million over two years to bring 

JetBlue to SAV. Active discussions are underway with the carrier to add SAV as a destination 

from its Boston hub, once again linking SAV with its third largest market. 

While this grant application is specifically tied to Boston service, we anticipate that the carrier 

would also add additional low-fare service to other key points in its network at its own risk, 

using local incentives that adhere to FAA guidelines. 

By awarding a Small Community Air Service Development grant to SAV, the Department of 

Transportation will help re-establish quality low-fare air service in the Savannah/Hilton Head 

market. This service will have a significant impact on local tourism and regional economic 

development. 

We propose a $500,000 SCASD grant to fund operational 

expenses associated with year-round, once-daily JetBlue 

service in the Boston – Savannah/Hilton Head market. 

The community is prepared to provide an additional $2 million in 

local funding to ensure the success of the service. 
Our Proposal Has a Wide Regional Impact 

4 

This application aims to bring low-fare air service to the Savannah Hilton Head 

International Airport (SAV). While SAV is the region’s primary airport, Hilton Head Island 

Airport (HHH) and Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) also offer scheduled air service in 

the region. 

Over 750,000 people live in the total service area. Approximately half of the airport’s 

traffic is bound for Savannah and Coastal Georgia, while the other half is headed to Hilton 

Head Island and Southern South Carolina. SAV is truly a regional facility. 

The communities recognize that SAV is the best gateway for low-fare air service and jointly 

support this application. The Convention and Visitor Bureau in each market will be actively 

involved in the success of JetBlue at SAV. 
Top Ten Cities in the USA - Condé Nast Traveler Magazine October 2012

Top 10 Cities in the US and Canada - Travel + Leisure Magazine 

The Best Places to Retire in 2012 – Forbes.com

15 Coolest Cities in North America - MSN.com

Best Southern City - Southern Living Magazine

Top 10 American Travel Destination - Conde Nast Traveler Magazine

50 Great Cities to Visit in America - London Daily Telegraph

Source: Savannah Convention & Visitors Bureau 

Savannah Is One Of America’s Greatest Getaways 

5 

Savannah is a true getaway destination. Visitors tend to stay for a long weekend (3.2 

nights on average) to enjoy the historical sights, unique shopping, and fine dining. To 

accommodate these visitors, Savannah offers over 15,000 hotel rooms. However, 

the region’s air service offering doesn’t keep pace. 

7.9 Million Annual Overnight Visitors

Due to poor air access and high fares, 

only 15% of Savannah visitors arrive 

by air. 
Source: Hilton Head/Bluffton Chamber of Commerce 

Top 10 Islands of North America – Conde Nast Traveler

Top 10 Family Beach – MSNBC.com 

Top 10 Best Family Destinations – Southern Living Magazine

“Think top-of-the-line spas, world-class resorts, tennis courts and 

golf courses galore, upscale shopping, and snazzy 

restaurants....Hilton Head is a family-friendly destination with miles 

of uncrowded beaches -- The Miami Herald 

Hilton Head Is One of America’s Top Beaches 

6 

The Hilton Head visitor product is different than Savannah’s. Hilton Head is a beach 

destination that offers leisure activities like golf and tennis. The area offers over 6,000 

hotel rooms and rentable units. Visits tend to last longer (5.6 days on average). Hilton 

Head visitors are also very affluent. The Average Visitor Income is over $100,000. 

Due to poor air access and high fares, 

only 13% of Hilton Head Island visitors 

arrive by air. 

2.5 Million Annual Overnight Visitors
The Golden Isles Are a Truly Unique Destination 

A beach and golf paradise located 

midway between Savannah and Jacksonville, 

the Golden Isles are an American treasure. 

Over 2 million annual visitors flock to five 

world-class resorts and over 70 hotels. All 

told, the Golden Isles boasts nearly 7,000 

hotel rooms and 198 holes of golf. 

The typical visitor has a household income 

of $145,000. 77% are likely to return. 

Like Savannah and Hilton Head, Golden Isles 

visitors are overwhelmingly arriving by 

automobile today. 

7 

Sea Island Golf Club is rated #1 in the 

U.S. among the “World’s 50 Best Golf 

Hotels” by Golf Digest 
Economic Potential Is Limited by Air Service 

8 

Source: Diio Mi – U.S. DOT 10% Coupon Sample. 

Top 25 Highest Domestic Airfares 

Among&the&largest&100&U.S.&Airports&for&YE&4Q12&

Rank Market Avg. Fare 

1 Memphis $305 

2 Cincinnati $280 

3 Tulsa $272 

4 Dallas (DAL) $260 

5 Charlotte $249 

6 Birmingham $249 

7 Louisville $247 

8 Oklahoma City $246 

9 Little Rock $244 

10 Greenville-Spartanburg $244 

11 Savannah $244 

12 Knoxville $241 

13 Pensacola $239 

14 Greensboro $238 

15 Madison $236 

16 Charleston, SC $235 

17 Cleveland $233 

18 Nashville $230 

19 Houston (IAH) $229 

20 Richmond $225 

21 El Paso $222 

22 Des Moines $219 

23 Houston (HOU) $219 

24 Indianapolis $219 

25 Columbus, OH $217 

Note: Fares among top 100 U.S. domestic airports are stage-length 

adjusted based on average 1,136-mile passenger haul length. 

The Savannah/Hilton Head/Golden Isles 

region will never be able to reach its 

economic potential without significant 

improvements in inbound air service. 

While high airfares are challenging in any 

market, they are particularly burdensome to 

a destination market like SAV. 

With average roundtrip airfares in the $500 

range, leisure visitors are priced out of 

the market. This is particularly true with a 

weekend getaway market like Savannah. 

The combination of high fares and poor 

nonstop service options pushes potential 

visitors to other destinations. 

As a result, fewer than 15% of visitors 

to the Savannah/Hilton Head region 

arrive by air. This means that visitors 

from markets outside of a reasonable drive, 

like Boston, tend to dismiss the region as an 

option. 

Much like the impact we are beginning to 

see in Charleston (SC) from JetBlue’s new 

service, we expect that the combination of 

lower fares and nonstop service will 

have a big impact on demand. 

Low-fare air service will have a 

particularly strong impact in a leisureoriented market like SAV 
In terms of traffic, SAV has fared worse than other U.S. airports on average over the 

past decade. SAV saw relative success in the early 2000’s and again in 2006 was related 

to AirTran and Independence Air service that operated during those periods. 

The AirTran service was particularly challenged by rising fuel prices and the post-9/11 

security environment. Daily flights were offered only to AirTran’s Atlanta (ATL) hub. This 

service was highly disadvantaged due to the strong competitive response offered by Delta 

and the short 3.5 hour drive time, which discouraged air travel. Delta’s dominance in the 

SAV-ATL market was too much for AirTran, and it finally abandoned the market in 2008 for 

good. 

Without AirTran to provide pricing discipline, air fares at SAV have risen rapidly. This has 

stifled demand and led to slower than average growth over the past five years. 

The current air service environment at SAV is one of stagnation. Carriers report strong 

performance as the result of constrained capacity and high yields. They are not eager to 

expand their service offering. Without low-fare service, the market is destined to 

under-perform its potential. 

!2.5%&

!2.0%&

!1.5%&

!1.0%&

!0.5%&

0.0%&

0.5%&

1.0%&

1.5%&

2.0%&

Jun$03'

Aug$03'

Oct$03'

Dec$03'

Feb$04'

Apr$04'

Jun$04'

Aug$04'

Oct$04'

Dec$04'

Feb$05'

Apr$05'

Jun$05'

Aug$05'

Oct$05'

Dec$05'

Feb$06'

Apr$06'

Jun$06'

Aug$06'

Oct$06'

Dec$06'

Feb$07'

Apr$07'

Jun$07'

Aug$07'

Oct$07'

Dec$07'

Feb$08'

Apr$08'

Jun$08'

Aug$08'

Oct$08'

Dec$08'

Feb$09'

Apr$09'

Jun$09'

Aug$09'

Oct$09'

Dec$09'

Feb$10'

Apr$10'

Jun$10'

Aug$10'

Oct$10'

Dec$10'

Feb$11'

Apr$11'

Jun$11'

Aug$11'

Oct$11'

Dec$11'

Feb$12'

Apr$12'

Jun$12'

10!Year&SAV&Annualized&Traffic&Change&Versus&U.S.&Airports&&

USA' SAV'

Source:&Diio Mi

SAV Traffic Has Not Kept Pace 

9 
The SAV Air Service Portfolio Limits Growth 

10 

Source: Diio Mi – Schedule Extract (June 2013). 

Cxr Dest Roundtrips Daily Outbound Seats Seats/Dep

AA DFW 2.9 145 50

DL ATL 9.8 1,269 129

DL DTW 1.0 66 68

DL LGA 2.7 194 72

UA EWR 2.2 110 50

UA IAD 3.6 181 50

UA IAH 1.2 60 50

UA ORD 2.4 123 52

US CLT 8.7 649 75

US DCA 2.3 116 51

US PHL 1.6 114 70

Total 38.3 3,025 79

Currently, SAV offers air service exclusively to legacy airline hubs. Despite the strong leisure 

attraction of the region, there is no low-fare or point-to-point service offered. This 

compares unfavorably to competitive markets like Charleston, SC (CHS) and Myrtle Beach 

(MYR), both of which offer an extensive array of diverse air service. 

Similar Markets Have a Proven History with Low-Fare Carriers 

Both CHS and MYR have had recent 

success in attracting quality low-fare and 

point-to-point service. In fact, JetBlue’s 

new success in the Boston (BOS) and New 

York (JFK) markets has prompted their 

interest in SAV. 
Impact of Low-Fares - The CHS Comparison 

We expect that JetBlue service at SAV will have an impact similar to that seen when JetBlue 

and Southwest Airlines recently entered the Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) market. 

The Savannah/Hilton Head/Golden Isles market offers a tourism product comparable to 

what Charleston offers. The regions attract a similar visitor demographic. But, significantly, 

the SAV market area actually offers more tourism potential. The Savannah/Hilton Head/

Golden Isles region has over 25,000 hotel rooms, while the Charleston market area offers 

just over 18,000. 

Until 2007, SAV and CHS supported roughly similar amounts of passenger traffic. As the 

recession and industry restructuring set in, SAV began to fall behind. However, the biggest 

impact came in 2011 when Southwest Airlines introduced low-fare service at CHS. JetBlue 

followed suit in 2013. 

Now we see a distinct separation between the markets. SAV fares are now higher, and the 

gap is growing. At the same time, we’ve seen CHS traffic grow while SAV’s has flat-lined. 

11 

2,172%% 2,247%%

2,636%% 2,795%%

2,664%% 2,471%% 2,537%%2,607%%2,542%%2,562%%2,417%%2,180%%2,095%%2,099%%2,170%%2,163%%2,117%% 2,124%% 2,022$$2,081$$2,163$$2,180$$2,406$$

2,759$$

2,800$$2,611$$2,542$$

2,968$$

3,168$$3,061$$

2,911$$2,890$$2,785$$2,712$$

3,004$$

3,352$$3,449$$3,420$$

0$$

1,000$$

2,000$$

3,000$$

4,000$$

2002$2003$2003$2003$2003$2004$2004$2004$2004$

2005$2005$2005$2005$

2006$2006$2006$2006$2007$2007$2007$2007$2008$2008$2008$2008$2009$2009$2009$2009$2010$2010$2010$2010$

2011$2011$2011$2011$

2012$2012$2012$2012$

Savannah%versus%Charleston%Passenger%Trends%

(four&quarter&rolling&total&daily&passengers&each&way)&

Savannah% Charleston%

Source: Diio Mi – U.S. DOT 10% Coupon Sample. 

$137%% $142%% $143%% $142%% $156%%

$180%%$182%% $177%% $181%% $187%%$193%%

$196%% $206%%$211%%

$224%% $235%%

$240%%

$183%% $184%% $179%% $184%%

$174%%

$160%%$167%%

$195%%

$212%%

$214%%

$207%%

$190%% $187%%

$196%%

$189%%

$180%%

$198%%

$218%%

$207%% $210%% $215%%

$130%%

$180%%

$230%%

2002%2003%2003%2003%2003%2004%2004%2004%2004%2005%2005%2005%2005%2006%2006%2006%2006%2007%2007%2007%2007%2008%2008%2008%2008%2009%2009%2009%2009%2010%2010%2010%2010%2011%2011%2011%2011%2012%2012%2012%2012%

Savannah%versus%Charleston%Average%Fare%Trends%

(four&quarter&rolling&total&average&daily&fares&each&way)&

Savannah% Charleston%
12 

Source: Diio Mi – U.S. DOT 10% Coupon Sample. 

Boston Is an Ideal Low-Fare Market from SAV 

Boston is the perfect market to 

launch low-fare service from SAV. It 

ranks as SAV’s third largest O&D 

market, even without nonstop 

service. In fact, Boston is currently 

SAV’s largest unserved market . 

JetBlue's model is ideally suited for 

the BOS-SAV market. The carrier’s 

BOS network is built on a low-fare, 

point-to-point model while still 

providing network connectivity to 

itself and a growing list of foreign 

partners. JetBlue’s reputation as a 

quality low-fare carrier with excellent 

customer service is a good fit with 

the up-market visitor typically 

attracted to Savannah, Hilton Head 

and the Golden Isles. 

Top 10 SAV Domestic Markets YE 4Q2012 

Rank Name PDEWs RDEW Avg. 

Fare 

1 New York (LGA) 121.0 $22,158 $183 

2 Philadelphia 86.4 $14,185 $164 

3 Boston 76.0 $13,418 $177 

4 Chicago (ORD) 73.4 $15,074 $205 

5 Dallas/Fort Worth 

(DFW) 62.3 $13,488 $217 

6 Atlanta 60.6 $9,005 $149 

7 Newark 60.4 $12,515 $207 

8 Denver 53.7 $8,930 $166 

9 Washington (DCA) 49.7 $8,252 $166 

10 Los Angeles 48.6 $11,918 $245 

44 New York (JFK) 12.6 $2,260 $180 

0.0##

20.0##

40.0##

60.0##

2004$Q1$2004$Q2$2004$Q3$2004$Q4$2005$Q1$2005$Q2$2005$Q3$2005$Q4$2006$Q1$2006$Q2$2006$Q3$2006$Q4$2007$Q1$2007$Q2$2007$Q3$2007$Q4$2008$Q1$2008$Q2$2008$Q3$2008$Q4$2009$Q1$2009$Q2$2009$Q3$2009$Q4$2010$Q1$2010$Q2$2010$Q3$2010$Q4$2011$Q1$2011$Q2$2011$Q3$2011$Q4$2012$Q1$2012$Q2$2012$Q3$2012$Q4$

SAV*BOS#Capacity#Trends#

(rolling(four(quarters(each(way)(

Onboard$Pax$Each$Way$ Daily#Seats#Each#Way#

Delta served the SAV-BOS market beginning early 2004, beginning with weekend service. 

In 2006, the service became daily on 50-seat regional jet aircraft. In 2008, the service 

was hit with a triple-blow. Delta de-emphasized its BOS operation, the economy entered 

into a major recession and the price of fuel spiked. At 901 miles, the SAV-BOS was now 

beyond the economical operating range of the 50-seat RJ and service was discontinued. 

Demand barely wavered, however, as is noted on the following page. 
13 

Source: Diio Mi – U.S. DOT 10% Coupon Sample. 

SAV Is Ripe for Boston Service 

Since Delta ended its regional jet service in the market in 2007, we’ve seen average fares 

rise from $130 each way to over $170. 

At the peak of Delta’s once-daily regional jet service, the market was producing 109 PDEW 

and record industry revenues approaching $15K per day. Since then, rising fares have led 

to an environment where the market again generates $15K per day, but on no nonstop 

service and 33 fewer PDEW. 

$50$$

$70$$

$90$$

$110$$

$130$$

$150$$

$170$$

$190$$

2004$Q1$

2004$Q2$2004$Q3$2004$Q4$

2005$Q1$

2005$Q2$2005$Q3$2005$Q4$

2006$Q1$

2006$Q2$2006$Q3$2006$Q4$

2007$Q1$

2007$Q2$2007$Q3$2007$Q4$

2008$Q1$

2008$Q2$2008$Q3$2008$Q4$

2009$Q1$

2009$Q2$2009$Q3$2009$Q4$

2010$Q1$

2010$Q2$2010$Q3$2010$Q4$

2011$Q1$

2011$Q2$2011$Q3$2011$Q4$

2012$Q1$

2012$Q2$2012$Q3$2012$Q4$

SAV,BOS$Average$Fare$Trends$

Average$Fare$(Actual)$ Average$Fare$(Rolling$Annual$Total)$

92.4%% 92.5%% 91.2%% 92.4%% 93.6%% 98.3%% 103.6%% 108.8%% 102.8%% 90.2%% 80.1%% 68.6%% 69.2%% 72.5%% 72.7%% 71.6%% 74.9%% 76.2%%

$0%%

$5%%

$10%%

$15%%

$20%%

0%%

50%%

100%%

150%%

2004$Q1$

2004$Q2$2004$Q3$2004$Q4$

2005$Q1$

2005$Q2$2005$Q3$2005$Q4$

2006$Q1$

2006$Q2$2006$Q3$2006$Q4$

2007$Q1$

2007$Q2$2007$Q3$2007$Q4$

2008$Q1$

2008$Q2$2008$Q3$2008$Q4$

2009$Q1$

2009$Q2$2009$Q3$2009$Q4$

2010$Q1$

2010$Q2$2010$Q3$2010$Q4$

2011$Q1$

2011$Q2$2011$Q3$2011$Q4$

2012$Q1$

2012$Q2$2012$Q3$2012$Q4$

SAV1BOS%Demand%&%Revenue%Trends%

(rolling(four(quarters(each(way)(

Passengers%Each%Way% Revenue$Each$Way$(Thousands)$

Top Unserved Domestic Markets from BOS

Rank Market PDEW

1 Honolulu 98.6

2 Sacramento 89.5

3 Albuquerque 87.9

4 Savannah 76.0

YE4Q2012

SAV is the fourth largest domestic 

O&D market from BOS with no 

nonstop service. The three larger 

markets are all significantly longer in 

stage length from BOS. Boston is ready 

to be reconnected to Savannah/Hilton 

Head. 
SAV Air Service Development Strategy 

Our Air Service Development Strategy consists of three key attributes. 

• Retention and development of existing hub service. 

– SAV enjoys robust hub service from the Big 4 network carriers. However, the 

vast majority of flights are on uncomfortable, and uneconomical, regional jet 

equipment. 

– Our efforts focus on increasing both the size of aircraft and the number of 

flights offered to key hubs. 

• Recruitment of low-fare, networked air service. 

– We’ve put significant effort into obtaining low-fare service that connects to a 

broader network. 

– We are disadvantaged by the extensive presence of such service to the north 

in Charleston (CHS) and to the south in Jacksonville (JAX). 

– Given the strength of their network in Boston, New York, and South Florida, 

JetBlue has been our primary target since 2010. These markets are some of 

the most under-served, highest-potential markets from SAV. 

• Low-fare and legacy carrier point-to-point route development. 

– As a high-profile leisure destination, Savannah/Hilton Head has the potential 

to support inbound point-to-point service. 

– While markets like Boston are obvious, smaller markets such as the type 

Allegiant serves could also be successful. 

14 

Retention and 

development of existing 

hub service. 

Recruitment of lowfare, networked air 

service 

Low-fare and legacy 

carrier point-to-point 

route development 
Intensive Efforts to Improve SAV Air Service 

SAV has had active and on-going Air Service Development underway for over a decade. In 

fact, we were one of the first airports of our size to have a full-time Director of Air Service 

Development. Today, ASD activities are coordinated in-house by a staff of two. Staff 

efforts are complemented by a contracted ASD consulting firm, Ailevon, LLC. 

In the past year, we have made detailed market presentations and service proposals to 

Allegiant Travel Company, Porter Airlines, Silver Airways, United Airlines, and WestJet at 

their headquarters. 

We’ve attended four major air service conferences, where we’ve met with over 15 carriers. 

We were also the host city for the well-established Airport Roundtable Conference in late 

2012. We welcomed network planners from American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Silver 

Airways to Savannah at that event. 

During the remainder of 2013, we plan on attending the Routes World Conference in Las 

Vegas as well as at least one Airport Roundtable Conference. And most relevantly, we plan 

a follow-up visit with JetBlue in August 2013 to further explore the opportunities that SAV 

has to offer. 

15 

JetBlue is the Ideal Partner for SAV 

JetBlue has been the top focus of our efforts for 

the past several years. We first visited with them 

at their headquarters in Summer 2010. Since then, 

we’ve been working to impress upon them the 

natural fit SAV is to their network. 

JetBlue’s network strength lies in three predominate market segments: 

• Boston – Business and Leisure travelers 

• New York – Leisure and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travelers 

• Florida/Caribbean – Leisure and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travelers 

We’ve long argued that the Savannah/Hilton Head visitor profile matches up well with the 

JetBlue customer demographic. And JetBlue’s key markets, including Florida, are also key 

markets for our region. In fact, New York City ranks #1 and Boston ranks #3 among SAV’s 

top O&D markets. 
SAV Proposes a $2.57 Million Package to JetBlue 

The total budget for this two-year 

incentive program is $2.57 million. 

Discussions with JetBlue indicated their 

desire to r e d u c e c a p i t o l a n d 

operational expenses as much as 

possible during the start-up period. 

A Revenue Guarantee was not deemed 

necessary. Therefore, our focus is on cost 

reduction and marketing support. 

16 

The community partners have allocated $600,000 over the two-year period to 

market JetBlue service in the origin markets. Our partners understand that awareness 

will be a key component in the success of this market. A significant amount of money 

has been allocated in recognition that the Boston media market is quite expensive and 

will require a robust investment. This destination marketing program will be 

administered by Visit Savannah and the Hilton Head Island Visitors 

Convention Bureau. 

 In-kind marketing incentives will be focused on the local market. 

! Capitol start-up expenses, including space build-out and equipment. 

! Waived airport rent for two years, including ticket counter, office , 

baggage make-up, common-areas, and gate holdroom space. 

! Waived landing and fuel flowage fees for Boston service. 

! Below-the-wing ground handling of all Boston service. 

! Terminal Mobility Services, including sky cap and wheelchair service. 

! Hotel accommodations for overnight crew members. 

! Cash marketing dollars to be focused on building inbound visitation. 

! In-Kind marketing to be focused on the local market. 

Summary of Cost-Related Incentives 

Summary of Marketing Incentives 

Two-Year JetBlue Boston Incentive Summary

Based on one daily E-190 flight

Cost-Related Incentives Years 1 & 2

Airport Rent & Fees $1,244,060

Below-Wing Ground Handling $358,000

Terminal Mobility Services $72,000

Crew Accomodations $158,000

Total Cost-Related Incentives $1,832,060

Marketing Incentives Years 1 & 2

Cash Marketing $650,000

In-Kind Marketing $83,000

Total Marketing Incentives $733,000

Total Two-Year Incentive $2,565,060
Nearly $2 Million in Local Commitment 

Our application represents a broad coalition of regional partners dedicated to the 

long-term success of low-fare air service at SAV. The partners have combined to 

contribute nearly $2 million over the two-year start-up period, including $600,000 in 

community cash. 

17 

Community cash contribution amounts to $600,000. This constitutes a 120% 

match of the proposed SCASD grant. The Savannah Airport Commission will also 

contribute over $1.3 million in Operational and Marketing funding consistent with D.O.T. 

guidelines. 

A Significant Investment in both Operations and Marketing 

Two-Year JetBlue Incentive Program Cash Funding Sources

Funding Sources

Savannah Airport Commission

Savannah Chamber of Commerce

Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA)

Visit Savannah

Hilton Head Island Visitors and Convention Bureau

U.S.D.O.T. SCASD Grant

Total

Two-Year JetBlue Incentive Program In-Kind Funding Sources

Funding Sources

Savannah Airport Commission

Savannah Chamber of Commerce

Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA)

Visit Savannah

Hilton Head Island Visitors and Convention Bureau

U.S.D.O.T. SCASD Grant

Total

Total Program Funding

Two-Year JetBlue Incentive Program Cash Funding Sources

Total

$300,000

$50,000

$250,000

$200,000

$100,000

$500,000

$1,400,000

Two-Year JetBlue Incentive Program In-Kind Funding Sources

Total

$1,165,060

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$1,165,060

$2,565,060

Two-Year JetBlue Incentive Program Summary

Fund Uses

Community 

Cash

Community 

In-Kind

Airport 

Cash

Airport 

In-Kind

SCASD 

Grant Total

Operations $250,000 $0 $0 $1,082,260 $500,000 $1,832,260

Marketing $350,000 $0 $300,000 $82,800 $0 $732,800

Total $600,000 $0 $300,000 $1,165,060 $500,000 $2,565,060

Operations Includes:

Includes waived fees, terminal use, below-wing ground handling and miscellaneous expenses associated with BOS service
Program Details 

18 

The Savannah Airport Commission, operator of the Savannah/Hilton Head International 

Airport, will be the lead agency responsible for the implementation and administration of this 

program. 

Administration of the Program 

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is ready to implement this program immediately 

upon agreement with JetBlue. We are involved in ongoing discussions with the carrier. We 

anticipate that the service would begin no earlier than Spring 2014. 

Timeline 

The success of this program will be measured primarily by the inauguration of JetBlue 

service in the Boston-Savannah/Hilton Head market. We anticipate that this service will lead 

to improvements in the following metrics by the end of the two-year implementation period: 

1. O&D traffic growth in the BOS-SAV market of at least 50%. 

2. Average Fare reduction in the BOS-SAV market of at least 20%. 

3. At least 200 additional daily seats offered by JetBlue to markets other than BOS. 

4. Overall capacity increase at SAV of at least 15%. 

5. Overall average fare reduction at SAV of 15%. 

Goals/Measure of Success 
The Right Choice 

19 

Our application meets all of the Priority Selection Criteria set out in 

the solicitation. 

1. Air fares are higher than the national average air fares for all communities. 

! SAV air fares are amongst the highest in the nation. 

2. The community or consortium will provide a portion of the cost of the activity 

from local sources other than airport revenue sources. 

! Community agencies across two states are contributing a 120% match of our 

grant request amount of $500,000 

3. The community or consortium has established or will establish a publicprivate partnership to facilitate air carrier service to the public. 

! The $600,000 budget for destination marketing will be administered by a 

public-private partnership consisting of the Savannah Airport Commission, Visit 

Savannah, the Savannah Chamber of Commerce, and the Hilton Head Island 

Visitors and Convention Bureau. 

4. The assistance will provide material benefits to a broad segment of the 

traveling public, including businesses, educational institutions, and other 

enterprises, whose access to the national air transportation system is 

limited. 

! The Savannah/Hilton Head region has been subject to some of the nation’s 

highest air fares since 2007. As a result, potential travelers have been shut out 

of the air transportation system. This includes not only visitors, but residents as 

well. This JetBlue service proposal is the first step to a more robust low-fare 

network from SAV. 

5. The assistance will be used in a timely manner. 

! This project has been coordinated with our partner carrier. We anticipate that we 

would be able to implement new service as early as Spring 2014. 

6. Multiple communities cooperate to submit a regional or multistate 

application to consolidate air service into one regional airport . 

! While this proposal doesn’t consolidate all air service into one regional airport, it 

is an acknowledgement by the communities that certain types of air service are 

best focused on one central airport. 
Letters of Support 

Lori Lynah

Director of Marketing & 

Air Service Development 

Savannah/Hilton Head International 

(912)964-0514 ext. 3304 - Office 

(912)313-1332 - Cell 
JACK KINGSTON 

1st District, Georgia 

WASHINGTON OFFICE 

2372 Rayburn House Office Building 

Washington, DC 20515 

(202) 225-5831 

(202) 226-2269 FAX 

BRUNSWICK OFFICE 

1510 Newcastle Street 

Suite 200 

Brunswick, GA 31520 

(912) 265-9010 

Q:ongrrss of thr tfinittd ~tatrs 

ittOUS£ of 'RQJf£SrntatiO£S 

(912) 265-9013 FAX July 25, 2013 

Ms. Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director, Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Room W86-307 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Ms. Chapman, 

Committee On Appropriations 

Chairman, Subcommittee on Labor, Health 

and Human Services, Education, 

and Related Agencies 

Defense Subcommittee 

State, Foreign Operations, 

and Related Agencies Subcommittee 

SAVANNAH OFFICE 

One Diamond Causeway, Suite 7 

Savannah, GA 31406 

(912) 352-0101 

(912) 352-0105 FAX 

I am pleased to support the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's request for the 

Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant. 

The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport has a huge impact on our local community, and 

they are a key economic driver in my district. Supporting the Airport's objective of attracting 

affordable air service to our region will benefit both Georgia and South Carolina. 

The airport is currently in discussions with JetBlue Airways to bring service to Savannah/Hilton 

Head International. The presence of a new airline at Savannah/Hilton Head International would 

go far in satisfying the needs of residents and visitors alike and would have a positive effect on 

Georgia, South Carolina, and the surrounding communities. The SCASD grant would help offset 

the cost of bringing a new airline to our region, benefitting tourism, commerce, and regional 

economic development. 

I hope that you will give the Airport's application for this grant the full consideration it deserves. 

It is crucial that all communities have access to a national air transportation system with 

competitive options without compromising airfares. This effort to improve our local air service 

will benefit businesses and leisure travelers alike. Should you need any additional information, 

please contact Elizabeth King in my Washington office at (202) 225-5831. 

Sincerely, 

/'"Jac 

(__ Me 

-

Kingston 

er of Congress 
The State Senate

Atlanta, Georgia 3

July 25, 2013

Ms. Brooke Chapman

Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development

Office of Aviation of Analysis

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE

Washington, DC 20590

Room W86-307

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

Dear Ms. Chapman:

I am pleased to support the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport’s request for the Department of 

Transportation’s Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant. Supporting the Airport’s objective of 

attracting affordable air service to our region will benefit both Savannah and the surrounding area’s tourism and 

economic growth. 

The airport is currently in discussions with JetBlue Airways to bring service to Savannah/Hilton Head 

International. The presence of a new airline at SAV would play a major role in satisfying the needs of residents and 

visitors alike and would have a positive effect on Hilton Head Island and the surrounding communities.

I hope that the highest consideration will be given to the Airport’s application for this grant in an effort to 

improve our local air service for the benefit of business and leisure travelers alike. It is crucial that all communities 

have access to a national air transportation system with competitive options without compromise by higher average 

airfares when compared to other communities.

Respectfully,

 Dr. Lester G. Jackson, III

State Senator, District 2

COMMITTEES:

Agriculture & Consumer Affairs

Economic Development

Health & Human Services

Higher Education

Urban Affairs

DR. LESTER G. JACKSON III

DEMOCRATIC DEPUTY WHIP

Senator, District 2

1501 Abercorn Street

Savannah, Georgia 31401

Tel: (912) 233-3345

206 Washington Street, S.W.

Suite 432 State Capitol

Atlanta, Georgia 30334

Tel: (404) 463-5261

Fax: (404) 463-5547

E-mail: lester.jackson@senate.ga.gov
Edna Branch Jackson 

Mayor 

July 23, 2013 

Ms. Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director- Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Room W86-307 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

On behalf of the City of Savannah, I am pleased to support the Savannah/Hilton 

Head International Airport's request for the Department of Transportation's Small 

Community Air Service Development Program Grant. Supporting the airport's 

objective of attracting affordable air service to our region will benefit both Georgia 

and South Carolina's tourism and economic growth. 

While our region has seen positive growth in jobs and capitol investment, airline 

mergers and realignments have left Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport 

without a low cost carrier. As a result, airfares here are some of the highest in the 

nation. The airport is currently in discussions with JetBlue Airways to bring service 

to Savannah/Hilton Head International. We fully support the airport's grant 

application for the purpose of offsetting startup and operational costs associated 

with bringing in a new airline. 

I hope that the highest consideration will be given to the Airport's application for 

this grant in an effort to improve our local air service for the benefit of business and 

leisure travelers alike. It is crucial that all communities have access to a national air 

transportation system with competitive options without compromise by higher 

average airfares when compared to other communities. 

Sincerely, 

Edna B. Jac son 

Mayor 

ejackson@savannahga.gov • P.O. Box 1027 • Savannah, Georgia 31402 • (912) 651-6444 • Fax (912) 651-6805 
S

VISIT 

AVANNAH 

EST. 1733~., July 24, 2013 

Ms. Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

On behalf of the Visit Savannah Board of Directors and the entire Savannah-area hospitality and 

tourism industry, I am pleased to support the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's 

request for the Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development 

Program Grant. Supporting the Airport's objective of attracting new, affordable air service to our 

region will benefit Savannah's overall community and future economic prosperity. 

The Airport is currently in discussions with JetBlue Airways to bring service to Savannah/Hilton 

Head International. The presence of a new airline at SAV would play a major role in satisfying 

the needs of residents and visitors alike and would have an extremely positive impact on the 

metro Savannah region. 

I encourage and ask that the highest consideration be given to the Airport's application for this 

grant in an effort to improve our local air service. It is crucial that all communities have access to 

a national air transportation system with competitive options without compromise by higher 

average airfares when compared to other communities. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely yours, 

Joseph Marinelli 

President 

C: Greg Kelly, Executive Director, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport 

Bill Hubbard, CEO, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce 

Trip Tollison, CEO, Savannah Economic Development Authority 

Scott Snipes, Chairman, Visit Savannah Board of Directors 

Vis itSava n na h .com 

101 East Bay Street I Savannah, Ga 31401 I P 912.644.6401 F 912.644.6499 11.877.Savannah 
July 23, 2013 

HILTON HEAD ISLAND • BLUFFTON 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave. , SE 

Room W86-307 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

On behalf of the Hilton Head Island - Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Board of 

Directors, I urge you to support the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's request 

for the Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development 

Program Grant. Tourism is not only our Island's number one industry; it is also the 

number one economic driver for the State of South Carolina. Affordable air service is 

crucial to maintaining the strength of tourism in our area and economic growth. 

The airport is currently in discussions with JetBiue Airways to bring service to 

Savannah/Hilton Head International. The presence of a new airline at SAV would play a 

major role in satisfying the needs of residents and visitors alike and would have a 

positive effect on Hilton Head Island and the surrounding communities. Throughout the 

years the airport has been a partner in promoting tourism to the area and we are 

pleased to partner in this effort to recruit new air service. 

I hope that the highest consideration will be given to the airport's application for this 

grant in an effort to improve our local air service for the benefit of business and leisure 

travelers alike. It is crucial that all communities have access to a national air 

transportation system with competitive options without compromise by higher average 

airfares when compared to other communities. The addition of a new low cost carrier to 

the region will enhance air service currently available in the market by expanding 

competition among carriers. 

Sincerely yours, 

v~~ t ·!l1;xWilliam G. Miles, 10M, CCE 

President & CEO 

WGM/ck 

PO BOX 5647 HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29938 TF 1 800 523 3373 P 843 785 3673 F 843 785 7110 

E INFO@HILTONHEADISLAND.ORG WWW.HILTONHEADI5LAND.ORG t:~o<r ~ , L "'"' > l ~" ' o 

ACCREDITED 

2000 ~ 2006 <iNati.orta.f el\.am.&e'L of tl\.e ~ea'L * * * * 
WORLD TRADE CENTER 

SAVANNAH 

a d1v ....... , of f1e :c. annah Econon.-: Devetr;. 4:nt Au:ht ' 1ty 

July 24, 2013 

Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

World Trade Center Savannah is pleased to offer its strong support of the Savannah/Hilton Head 

International Airport's application for the Department of Transportation's Small Community Air 

Service Development Program Grant. 

As a regional center for logistics, manufacturing, mi litary operations and tourism, t he 

Savannah/Hi lt on Head area's air service quality and pricing is of critical strat egic importance not 

only locally but nationally, and wit hout a low cost carrier, we are at a disadvantage. 

We fully support t he Airport's effort to right this imbalance through the securing of an 

appropriate air service provider and respectfully ask that you please approve their request for 

this grant. 

ran 

Sincere~g~ 

pera · Officer and Vice President 

CC: Greg Kelly 

P.O. Box 128 (31402) 

131 Hutchinson Island Road, 4th Floor 

Savannah, Georgia 31421 USA PROSPERITY THROUGH TRADE " 

T +1.912.447.9707 

F + 1.91 2.447.8455 

wN·: ·.wtcsavannah.org 
July 24, 2013 

Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

SAVANNAH ECONOMIC 

DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 

WWW.SEDA.ORG 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

On behalf of the Savannah Economic Development Authority Board of Directors, I am pleased to 

support t he Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's request for the Department of 

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant. Supporting the 

airport's objective of attract ing affordable air service to our region will benefit both Georgia and 

South Carolina's tourism and economic growth. 

While our region has seen positive growth in jobs and capital investment, airline mergers and 

realignments have left Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport without a low cost carrier. As 

a result, airfares here are some of the highest in the nation. The airport is currently in discussions 

with JetBiue Airways to bring service to Savannah/H ilt on Head International. We f ully support t he 

airport's grant application for the purpose of offsetting startup and operational costs associated 

with bringing in a new airline. 

I hope that the highest consideration will be given to the Airport's appl ication for this grant in an 

effort to improve our local air service for the benefit of business and leisure travelers alike. It is 

crucial that all communities have access t o a national air transportat ion system with competitive 

options without compromise by higher average airfares when compared to other communities. 

Sincerely, 

Hugh "Trip" Tol lison 

President and CEO 

CC: Greg Kelly 

Ph : 912.447.8450 I : 912.447.8455 

\1Jiling AdJn:'>'- P.O. Box 128 Savannah, GA 31402-0128 

PhnicJI AJJn:'>'> 131 Hutchinson Island Road, 4th Floor Savannah, GA 31421 
SAVANNAH AREA CHAMBER of COMMERCE 

101 East Bay Street I Savannah, GA 314011 P.O. Box 1628 (31402-1628) 

SavannahChamber.com I 912.644.6400 

July 23, 2013 

Ms. Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

I am pleased to support Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport in its effort to 

acquire the Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development 

Program Grant. I have long supported the Airport's objective of attracting affordable air 

service to our community, and the $500,000 SAV is seeking would be an important tool 

in securing a commitment for new service. 

The airport is currently in discussions with JetBiue Airways to bring service to 

Savannah/Hilton Head International. The presence of JetBiue would play a major role in 

satisfying the needs of residents and visitors alike. This financial grant would be used to 

help offset startup costs of bringing in a new carrier to the airport. The Savannah Area 

Chamber of Commerce stands behind the efforts to recruit new air service, and 

recognize that the addition of JetBiue would be a valuable asset to future business and 

tourism growth. 

I ask that the highest consideration be given to Savannah/Hilton Head International's 

application for this grant to improve our local air service for the benefit of business and 

leisure travelers alike. 

William W. Hubbard 

President and CEO 

t.. 

Visit Savannah· Ambassadors Council· CEO Council• Forward Savannah Task Force· Governmental Affairs Council 

Greater Savannah Sports Council• LaunchSAVANNAH • Leadership Savannah • Manufacturers Council• Military Affairs Council 

Owners Council • PR Council· Small Business Council· Trustees Council• Tybee Island Tourism Council• Workforce Development Council 
CHAIRMAN oF CouNTY CoMMISSIONERS 

Albert J. Scott 

Chairman ® 

July 24, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Assistant Director 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Chatham County Courthouse 

Post Office Box 8161 

Suite 210- 124 Bull Street 

Savannah, Georgia 31412 

(912) 652-7878 

(912) 652-7880- fax 

I am pleased to support the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's request for the 

Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant. 

Supporting the Airport's objective of attracting affordable air service to our region will benefit 

both Savannah and the surrounding area's tourism and economic growth. 

The airport is currently in discussions with JetBlue Airways to bring service to Savannah/Hilton 

Head International. The presence of a new airline at SA V would play a major role in satisfying 

the needs of residents and visitors alike and would have a positive effect on Hilton Head Island 

and the surrounding communities. 

I hope that the highest consideration will be given to the Airport's application for this grant in 

an effort to improve our local air service for the benefit ofbusiness and leisure travelers alike. 

It is crucial that all communities have access to a national air transportation system with 

competitive options without compromise by higher average airfares when compared to other 

communities. 

Sincerely, 

Albert J. Scott, Chairman 

Chatham County Commission 
WE._ 

JolS SCREVEN Co NTY 101 S. Main Street U Sylvania, GA 30467 

DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (912) 564-7850 

Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

www.screyencountydeyelopmentauthority.com 

Small Community Air Service Development 

Office of Aviation of Analysis 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Room W86-307 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

On behalf of the Screven County Development Authority, I am pleased to support the 

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport's request for the Department of 

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant. 

Supporting the airport's objective of attracting affordable air service to our region 

will benefit both Georgia and South Carolina's tourism and economic growth. 

While our region has seen positive growth in jobs and capitol investment, airline 

mergers and realignments have left Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport 

without a low cost carrier. As a result, airfares here are some of the highest in the 

nation. The airport is currently in discussions with jetBlue Airways to bring service 

to Savannah/Hilton Head International. We fully support the airport's $500,000 

grant application, and the efforts to bring a new airline to the region. 

I urge the Department of Transportation to give the Savannah/Hilton Head 

International Airport grant application all due consideration. The addition of JetBlue 

would improve our local air service for the benefit of business and leisure travelers 

alike. 

Sincerely yours, 

Dorie Bacon 

Executive Director, Screven County Development Authority 

(912) 564-7850 

dorie@screyencountydeyelopmentauthority.com