f. ~ 

Chris Holman 

Chairman 

Dick Baker 

Victur Cell'lItinu 

Tudd Couk 

Paul Hufnagel 

Rober! I·. Selig, . 1.·11: 

!:'xeCtlfl H' Oirn fur 

EGlON AIRPORT AUTHORITY 

October 25, 2010 

US Department of Transportation 

Attn: Docket Section (Angelia Ames) 

Room W12-140 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

" ) ;~ : ~ .. / 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Ladies and Gentlemen: 

Enclosed please find 42 letters of support for the Sun Country Airlines application 

for a slot pair at Reagan National Airport (DCA) in Washington D.C. 

As you can see by the content of these letters, non-stop service to Reagan National 

Airport is critical to the air service development program for Michigan's capital city, 

Lansing, MI. As you review this information please consider the following essential 

issues related to the application and Lansing: 

1. We understand that the competition for this landing slot pair is Frontier, 

Southwest, AirTran, and US Airways. However all of these airlines and their 

related origination cities. appear to have sufficient other access to Washington 

DC. 

2. On the other hand, Lansing is one of only two State capitals among the ten 

largest states in the U.S. with!!Q nonstop air service to the nation's capital. 

Nonstop 

Washington 

Rank State 2008 State POl2ulation Cal2ital 2008 MSA POl2ulation Service 

1 California 36,756,666 Sacramento 2,109,832 Yes 

2 Texas 24,326,974 Austin 1,652,602 Yes 

3 New York 19,490,297 Albany 853,919 Yes 

4 Florida 18,328,340 Tallahassee 357,259 Yes* 

5 Illinois 12,901,563 Springfield 207,389 No 

6 Pennsylvania 12,448,279 Harrisburg 531,108 Yes 

7 Ohio 11,485,91 0 Columbus 1,773,120 Yes 

8 Michigan 10,003,422 Lansing 454,035 No 

9 Georgia 9,685,744 Atlanta 5,376,285 Yes 

10 North Carolina 9,222,414 Raleigh 1,088,765 Yes 

*US Airways TLH-OCA service reportedly has been announced but has not begun. 

Capital Region Internationa l Airport . 4100 Capital City Blvd . • Lansing, Michigan 48906 . 517·321 ·6121 • Fax 51 7·321·6197 

www.tl yla nsing.colll 
US Department of Transportation 

October 25,2010 

Page 2 

3. While the Lansing MSA is only 454,000, the population of the Airport's market 

service area within 75 miles drive of Lansing is calculated to be 5.7 million. 

4. Sun Country Airlines is a new entrant, and a low cost carrier, for Lansing and 

DCA. 

5. Lansing, and in fact the state of Michigan have no low cost air service to 

Washington / Reagan National Airport outside of Detroit. The majority of the 

states noted above have DC access from multiple cities. 

6. Sun Country has ~ had the opportunity to offer air service access to 

WashingtonlReagan National Airport. All other US airlines have had access for 

years. 

7. Washington DC is Lansing's number one (#1) most popular travel destination. 

The regional passenger activity daily each way will economically support the 

proposed Sun Country service. 

8. The Airport Authority has attempted to fill this air service void to Washington 

DC through Delta, United, SkyWest, US Airways, Express Jet, and Jet Blue. 

Each airline was given the opportunity to provide the service and to receive the 

related start up incentives. Each airline has declined the opportunity except Sun 

Country. 

The Airport Authority sincerely requests that the Department of Transportation approve 

the Sun Country slot application for Lansing, MI. This service to DC and the economic 

impact of the Sun Country commitment is essential to the economic recovery of the 

Greater Lansing region. 

Robert F. elig, AAE 

Executive Director 
BEKUM AMERICA CORPORATION 

1140 West Grand River, PO. Box 567, Williamston, Michigan USA 48895-0567 PHONE:517-655-4331 FAX:517-655-4121 

October 15, 2010 

Honorable Ray LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: SUN COUNTRY AIRLINES ApPLICATION - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Please accept this letter of support for the Sun Country Airlines Application. Lansing is the 

home of Michigan's state government, Michigan State University, several major insurance 

companies, General Motors, hundreds of state associations and a vibrant corporate 

community whose needs for air service have been demonstrated to far exceed the 

commitment currently being demonstrated by the airlines serving our region. The MidMichigan Business Travel Coalition represents more than 200 businesses, governmental and 

educational organizations in the Mid-Michigan area and to that end, we write this letter to 

support and request approval of the Sun Country application referenced above. 

Bekum America Corporation is an international company with headquarters in Berlin, 

Germany. From its Berlin, Germany base, Bekum operates 5 manufacturing facilities in 4 

countries on 3 continents. In addition to international travel, Bekum's employees travel 

extensively in the United States. Industry standard meetings are frequently held in 

Washington DC and direct air service between Lansing and Washington DC is a vital 

service not only for meetings in the nation's capital but also for connecting through the 

Atlantic seaboard and international destinations. 

Periodic surveys of members of the Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition's travel habits 

consistently show that Washington DC is the number one destination of our business 

travelers. As the home of Michigan's state capitol, direct service to Washington DC is of 

vital importance to our region. Accordingly, Bekum America Corporation joins the 

Lansing community to request your approval of the Sun Country slot application. 

Si~{).~ 

Steven D. London 

Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer 

SDUlk 10-178 
October 5,2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

C2AE supports and requests approval of the Sun Country Application noted above. 

We are aware non-stop service from Lansing to Washington, DC is highly desired and is 

in great demand. The service would replace service lost a few years ago in 2005, as a 

result of airline bankruptcies. Consequently, Lansing is one of only a few state capitals 

without non-stop service to Washington. 

With the many airline mergers and bankruptcies in recent times, Lansing has lost a 

significant number of flights which has no doubt hurt the mid-Michigan region 

economically. Information regarding the declines is available from the Capital Region 

Airport Authority. 

With all due respect, we sincerely request your approval of the Sun Country application. 

Such approval would greatly enhance the ability of the mid-Michigan region to move 

forward in these difficult economic times and also fill the void in airline service for the 

Lansing region. 

Sincerely, 

C2AE 

Raymond E. Tadgerson, P.E. 

Director of Marketing and Business Development 
Jane Dot,-, Chair 

Workforce Development Board 

Joseph Brehler, Chair 

Administrative Board 

Douglas E. Stites 

Chief ExecutIve Officer 

2110 S. Cedar St.· Lansing. Michigan 48910 • Phone (517) 492-5599 • Fax (517) 487-0113 

October 14, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7/62 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

On behalf of Capital Area Michigan Works!, I am pleased to express our 

support and request approval for the Sun Country Airlines application 

referenced above. 

Capital Area Michigan Works! is one of 25 statewide Michigan Works! 

agencies that assist local employers with finding employees. While we are 

located in the capital city of Lansing, we service a three county area 

working closely with state and local governments, local colleges and 

universities, and private and public sectors to provide qualified employees 

to our regional businesses. Our organization receives state and federal 

funding to provide services, including training, to both employers and job 

seekers. These services depend on legislative activities, requiring frequent 

travel to and from Washington. DC. As proven in the past with 

Independence Air, who provided direct flights from Lansing to Washington, 

DC until 2005, businesses and organizations benefited by the reduction of 

layovers and the convenience of these nonstop flights. We believe our 

area would again benefit from such service. 

We strongly support the Sun Country Airlines application and greatly 

appreciate your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

~[E(# Chief Executive Officer 

An equal opportunity employer/program' Auxiliary aids lIld 5eNices are available upon request to individuals with disabllltJes • Hichllf<ln Relay Center caft 71 I or (8(0) 64S-3m 

1-800-285-WORKS' www.camw.org 
CAPITOL BAN CORP 

LIMITED 

Chairman and CEO 

October 13, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Capitol Bancorp Center 

200 Washington Square North 

Lansing, MI 48933 

tel: 517.487.6555 fax; 517.374.2576 

1717 East Camelback Rd., Suite ?!I5 

Phoenix, AZ gs016 

tel: 602.955.6100 fax: 602.955.6978 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Capitol Bancorp Limited, a multi-bank holding company based in 

Lansing, Michigan, hereby offers this letter in support of the request for 

approval of the Sun Country Application referenced above. 

Nonstop service to Washington, D.C., is of great import to our 

corporation which visits with the Federal Reserve, the FDIC, the OTS and 

the Controller of the Currency on a routine and frequent basis. The 

availability of direct airline travel between our capitol and the United 

States capitol would provide our business a great benefit. 

~¥' Joseph D. Reid 
October 15,2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. Lahood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Dear Mr. LaHood: 

Capitol National Bank is a member of the Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition 

which represents more than 200 businesses, governmental and educational organizations 

in the Mid-Michigan area. We work collaboratively to secure the strongest possible air 

service in our region. I write this letter in support of that mission and request approval of 

the Sun Country application referenced above. 

The mid-Michigan region spends more than $25 million per year on air travel. The 

number one destination for our business travelers is Washington DC. Our community 

would benefit tremendously from this service. We have a thriving manufacturing sector, 

as well as some of the nation's top financial and insurance companies located in this 

region. We are home to Michigan State University and hundreds of state associations. 

Equally as important is the fact that Lansing is the capital of Michigan and direct service 

to Washington DC is of vital importance to our business community. 

The Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition views strong air service as a critical 

component of our region's economic growth strategy. We are committed to supporting 

this service to ensure future economic growth and development of the region. We 

request your approval of this Sun Country application. Thank you. 

Respectfully, 

Paula D. Cunningham 

President/CEO 
October 18,2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. Lahood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

I am writing to you today in regards to the approval of the Sun Country Airlines 

Application to fly direct from Lansing, MI to Washington DC. As other local 

organizations and businesses have addressed with letters, I would like you to understand 

the importance of our business community to be able to travel to Washington DC to 

address issues that matter to "Main Street" Michigan. Lansing's continued development 

relies on our ability to access places like Washington DC. With this improved ability to 

access Washington, Lansing can continue to make strides in its development for the 

future. 

I ask you to please strongly consider this application for approval. This flight is good for 

everyone! 

Sincerely, 

Dustin R. Preston 

President 

3121 WEST CIRCLE DRIVE, SUITE 300 LANSING, MI 48906 

PHONE: 866.773.7800 (TOLL FREE) 51 7.327.6660 FAX: 517.327.6662 
October 14,2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

Celink 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

I am a business owner located in Lansing, Michigan and learned recently of Sun Country's 

application for approval to develop air service directly from Lansing to the Washington Reagan 

National Airport. I strongly urge you to approve this request. 

I travel to Washington D.C. about a dozen times during the year for conferences, meetings with 

our industry's association, visiting with my Congressional representatives, and meetings with 

some of my clients. Some of the people I meet with in D. C. will often fly to Lansing to visit with 

my staff and a direct flight would be very convenient, and likely less expensive than the current 

options. 

A direct flight would be very beneficial to my company because it would be a huge timesaver 

and money saver as well. I recently had to send three employees to D.C. on short notice, and the 

cheapest airfare from Lansing was over $700.00. Sun Country's airfare would be at least 7'2 that 

fare and I am sure you can appreciate that in today's economy, business owners like me need 

every break: we can get. 

Please support Sun Country's application; it would be a huge boost to the mid-Michigan area. 

3900 Capital City Boulevard Lansing, Michigan 48906 
October 14, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

US Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Regarding: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood; 

We are writing in support of the application by Sun Country Airlines referenced above. 

While our community residence members do not reside within the Lansing City Limits, we are a 

community that enjoys the benefits of the Regional Airport on a daily basis. We are a community 

of 25,000 many of whom have a strong desire for nonstop travel to our Nation's capital. We 

enjoyed that until 2005 when another airline stopped all flights due to their own financial difficulties 

- however it is my understanding it was not due to a lack of interest of those nonstop flights 

between LAN and DCA. Our choice now is either to make a 1.5 hour dirve, each way, to Detoirt 

for a direct flight or the expense of an additional flight out of Lansing and the changing of planes in 

Detroit to then travel into Washington. 

Sun Country Airlines has proven themselves as great partners with our communities by having 

other nonstop services to Las Vegas, Ft. Meyers, Orlando and recently adding Cancun and 

Jamaica. The additional service to Washington would fill a void and allow us direct travel to DCA 

along with the option of easier International Travel. 

We look forward to a favorable decision of Sun Country's application. Thank you for your 

consideration. 

Robert Whitaker 

Chamber President 

Ann M Garvey 

Executive Director 

P.S. As I represent Eaton Area HFH, I personally have flown in and out of Lansing "LAN" 

(through Detroit) into Washington Regan airport "DCA" more than a dozen times in the past 

twelve months to do business with the National Association Home Builders on 12th/Mass. I do 

not see that travel decressing in the next 24 months as I have accepted the position as a Senior 

Officer beginning 2011-2013. This approval would make my travel extremley more cost effective 

and convenient. 
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF MERIDIAN 

SUSiln McGillicuddy Supervisor 

1'v1ary M.G. Helmbrcclll Clerk 

Jlllie Brixic Treasurer 

Ger<l ld J. Richards Manager 

October 11,2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Brett Dreyfus 

Elizaheth Ann LcGotT 

Lynn Ochbcrg 

John Veenstra 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

The Charter Township of Meridian supports the application 

to bring Sun Country Airlines to our Capital Region 

International Airport. This servic!3 will greatly enhance our 

region and restore a needed service. 

Sincerely, 

Susan McGillicuddy 

Supervisor 

/ 

~c: Robert Selig 

Truslee 

Trustee 

Trustee 

Trustee 

5151 MARSH ROAD, OKB10S.MICHIGAN 48864-1198 (517) 853-4000 FAX (517) 853-4096 

http://ww .... twp.meridian.mi.us 

An Equal Opportunity EJIlfl hJ~·e · 
V:ctor V·'/ Loomfs,.ir 

\byDr 

·110 Abh0: Ro;,J 

East La"'lr.g, MI 4BB23 

(517) )19·6920 

CITY OF EAST LANSING 

The Home of Michigan State University 

October 22, 201 0 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - OOT-OST-20000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

On behalf of the City of East Lansing and the Mid-Michigan Region, I am writing in support 

of Sun Country's proposal to add two, non-stop flights per day to Washington, D.C. from 

Lansing. The complete routing would include Minneapolis - Lansing - Washington, D.C. and 

retum.1n addition to the benefit of two direct flights to D.C. this would allow for two more 

flights to Minneapolis which is also a desirable destination for our region. 

This proposal would require landing slots at Washington's National Airport (DCA) and I 

respectfully urge that these be approved by your department. Our region previously had 

access to this vital service however, it ceased to exist in 2005 with the departure of 

Independent Air. 

This is a very important prospect for Mid-Michigan. As the State Capital, Lansing is home to 

many successful businesses, all three branches of state government, along with many nonprofit and interest groups that would be well-served by the opportunity for direct travel to 

Washington, D.C. East Lansing hosts Michigan State University which is a world-class 

institution renowned for its international outreach and this service would enhance its global 

appeal. 

There is no doubt that if Sun Country's proposal was to be approved, Mid-Michigan would 

realize numerous direct economic and cultural benefits. I truly hope that you and your 

department will help inake this a reality. If you have any questions regarding this letter, please 

feel free to contact me directly at 517-881-0395. 

Sincerely, 

/' ~ Loomis, Jr. 

Mayor 

Cc: Robert F. Selig, AAE Executive Director 
Virg Bernero 

Mayor 

October 5, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR 

9th Floor, City Hall 

124 W. Michigan Avenue 

Lansing, Michigan 48933-1694 

(517) 483-414 1 (Voice ) 

(517) 1\ 83-44 79 (TOD) 

(517) 483-6066 (Fax ) 

mayor@lansingmi.gov 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST -2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

The City of Lansing suppOlis the Sun COlU1l.ry Application, as referenced above, for landing slots that would enable 

non-stop service to Regan National Airport in Washington DC. We enthusiastically request the U.S. Department of 

Transpoltation's approval of Sun Country's request. 

Non-stop service to Washington DC is in great demand in the Greater Lansing Region, as Washington is the number 

one business destination out of the region. Mid-Michigan is home to Michigan State University, Central Michigan 

University, and numerous organizations, including two General Motors assembly plants, all of which need efficient 

air access to Washington Regan National Airport. 

The new Sun Country service is essential to the expanding economic growth of our region. Your inmlediate approval 

of its application would be gre.:'1tly appreciated. 

Sincerely, 

~~ Virg Bernero 

Mayor of Lansing 

"Equal Opportunity Employer" 
MIKE ROGERS 

8TH DISTRICT, MtcHlGAN 

133 CANNON HOUSE OfFICE BvllOlNO 

WASHINGTON, DC 20515 

(202) 225-4872 

(202) 22&-6S20 FAX 

1000 WeST ST. JoSEPH 

SUfrE 300 

lANSWG, M! 48915 

(5171702-8000 

~on!lrc5'5' of tbc Wnitcb ~tatc~ 

1!)oUf)t of l\eprtf)tntatibt~ 

.a~bington, jDQI: 20515-2208 

(617) 702-8642 FAX 

(877) 333-MIKE Tou-FREE 

www mikeroger&.boy$c ggy 

The Honorable Ray LaHood 

U.s' Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

October 15) 201 0 

Re: Sun Country AiriinesApplication-#DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Secretary LaHood: 

-

COMMITTEES: 

PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON 

INTELLIGENCE 

ENERGY AND COMMERCE 

SUaCOMMf1TEES: 

HEALTH 

COMMUNICATIONS, TeCHNOLOGY, 

AND THE INnRNET 

I am writing to you today to support the Sun Country Airlines application that 

would reestablish air connection from Lansing, Michigan to Reagan National Airport in 

Washington, DC. 

Lansing and the Mid-Michigan corridor is a hub of activity from Michigan State 

University and their development contracts with the Department of Energy to Emergent 

Bio Solutions and General Motors auto assembly plant. Since the unfortunate bankruptcy 

of Independence Airlines, Lansing has felt a void with the loss of this connection. 

In closing, I would ask that you seriously consider this application. The benefits 

to Mid-Michigan and the business community have implications that reach far beyond 

Lansing. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding this 

application. 

Sincerely, 

PRINTED ON RECYct..ED PAPER 
c7adW. §7twt0-

/.,f?,~~~,y~ 7t7t7 

$~ ~NYt~ ?'d'.9J'.f' 

The Honorable Raymond L LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Secretary LaHood, 

October 14,2010 

As a native of Lansing, Michigan, and a past member, and current President of the 

Lansing School District's Board of Education I have always been proud of this region and glad to 

call it home, Because of my familiarity with the business leadership and government institutions 

in our community, as well as my experience with the interests of the City of Lansing I was 

especially pleased to see one of Lansing's important assets, the Capital Region International 

Airport, deSignated as an Intemational Port of Entry into the United States in 2008, 

In my role as a partner in one of Lansing's oldest law firms and an active member in 

many local organizations including LEAP, Boys and Girls Club and Rotary, I have witnessed the 

progress of our region through both economic recessions and times of relative prosperity. 

Through it all LanSing has always maintained an ability to survive and thrive and some of that 

credit must be attributed to those institutions which have built a strong foundation here. The 

Capital Region Intemational Airport (LAN) is certainly one of them. 

The Capital Region International Airport is an essential asset to the commercial health of 

the entire tri-county area. Its success is vitally important and the services the airport provides 

must continue to expand in order to ensure adequate accommodations for the businesses, 

educational institutions. govemment facilities and people of this region. I would like to add my 

voice to those of other citizens and business leaders to encourage the acceptance of Sun 

Country Airlines' appJication for the addition of two non-stop flights per day to Washington's 

Reagan National Airport (DCA) from the capitol city of the State of Michigan, Lansing. Sun 

Country has proven to be a dependable carrier with a commitment to the region and I support 

their efforts to provide the vital link our area requires with the Nation's Capito/. 

I encourage the U.S. Department of Transportation to endorse and accept the application 

presented by Sun Country Airlines (DOT-OST-2000-7182) as the service they propose to provide 

is not only essential to the continued success of the Mid-M' an area, but to the entire State as 

well. 

cc: Ross Woodstock. Kolt Communlcations, Inc. 

Robert Selig, Capitol Region Airport Authority 
The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

DELTA 

TOWNSHIP 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

October 14, 2010 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Delta Township Michigan strongly supports the application of Sun Country Airlines and 

encourages you to consider it favorably. The improved and expanded service that Sun Country 

will offer to the greater Lansing area, particularly our township, will enhance our community and 

restore a much needed service that we have missed since the 2005 exit of Independence Air. 

Delta Township is a premier residential and business location in the greater Lansing area. We 

are home to the newest General Motors assembly plant, many warehouse and distribution 

facilities, as well as a growing insurance and data processing sector. The Capital Region 

International Airport is now a Foreign Trade Zone and our only mid-Michigan Port of Entry. The 

airport is fully equipped to accommodate expanded service. The Sun Country application 

approval will help us continue our economic recovery, and assist the greater Lansing area with 

improved regional access. 

Approval of the Sun Country application will enhance travel that benefrts our employers and our 

residents. Michigan's state and local legislators and government need non-stop service to our 

nation's capitol. Our strong and growing insurance industry requires expanded air service to 

Washington D.C. Our manufacturing and high technology businesses want improved access to 

expanding business markets, and our residents with family and friends 'back east' will enjoy 

expanded air services from mid-Michigan. 

Delta Township, Michigan supports this application and respectfully encourages you to approve 

Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182. Please contact us with any 

questions or concerns. 

Sincerely, 

~j(fJZ1iJ~ 

Kenneth R. Fletcher 

Township Supervisor 

7710 West Saginaw Highway • Delta Township, Michigan· 48917-9712 

Information Ph: 517-323-8500· Fax: 517-323-8599 

www.deltami.gov 
October 7, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood; 

Demmer Corporation enthusiastically supports and request approval of the Sun Country 

Application referenced above. 

Demmer Corporation is a major defense contractor with company demands that require 

business travel to and from the Washington DC area on a regular basis. The approval of 

this application and addition of this service to the Capital Region International Airport 

would fill an airline service void for Mid-Michigan residents and the greater Lansing 

business community. 

Your consideration and support of the Sun Country Application will be appreciated. 

Respectfully, 

William 

tJ.~ Demmer, CEO 

Demmer Corporation 

WAD/pka 

1600 North Larch Lansing, MI 48906 Phone: (517)321-3600 Fax: (517)321-7449 
EATON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 

MEMBERS 

Michael Hosey 

Blake Mulder 

Theresa Abed 

Carol Strachan 

Jeanne Pearl-Wright 

Leo Farhat, Jr. 

John Forel! 

October 5, 2010 

1045 Independence Blvd, CiJatlOlte, MI 48813 

Joseph Brehler, Chairperson 

Glenn Freeman III. Vice Chairperson 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7 I 82 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

MEMBERS 

Linda Keefe 

Art Luna 

Daryl Baker 

Dale Barr 

Denise Clarke 

Roger Harris 

The Capital Region Airport Authority supports and requests approval of the Sun Country Application 

referenced above. 

Non-stop service to Washington DC is in great demand in the Greater Lansing Region. This service 

would replace the successful Independence Air service that was lost .in 2005 due to the airline 

bankruptcies. Since then, Lansing has remained one of the few state capitals without non-stop service to 

Washington. 

Additionally, Lansing, MI air service, has suffered greatly as a result of airline bankruptcies and airline 

mergers in recent years. The attached five year summary demonstrates that the Delta - Northwest 

bankruptcy and merger resulted in a decline of 3,456 flights (-59.6%) from 2004 to 2009. Note that this 

decline in airline flights also resulted in a significant decline of 348,948 total passengers (-59.1%) 

processed through the Capital Region International Airport during the same period. 

Accordingly. the new Sun Country service will begin to fill the void in airline service for Mid-Michigan. 

Your approval of the Sun Country slot application wiII be greatly appreciated. 

Sincerely, 

q~B!J~ Chairman, Board of Commissioners 
October 14, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United State Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airline Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

The Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition represents more than 200 businesses, 

governmental and educational organizations in the Mid-Michigan area. Our mission is to 

work toward the development of the strongest possible air service in our region. To that 

end, we write this letter to support and request approval of the Sun Country application 

referenced above. 

As a member of the Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition and as an employee of 

Emergent BioDefense Operations of Lansing, many people from our company travel to 

the DC area on a daily basis. Our home office is housed in Rockville, our research 

development office is in Gaithersburg, and we are developing another facility in 

Baltimore. With the additional flights Sun Country would offer our employees would be 

able to leave from the Lansing area rather than driving to Detroit. This would be huge for 

our company alone, not to mention the many government employees who travel to the 

DC area regularly. 

The Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition views strong air service as a critical 

component of our region's economic growth strategy. We also view direct service to 

Washington DC as something that addresses a demonstrated community need. 

Accordingly, we would greatly appreciate your approval of the Sun Country slot 

application. 

Sincerely, 

Diane Diamond 

Emergent BioDefense Operations Lansing 

3500 N Martin Luther King Jr Blvd 

Lansing, MI 48906 
October 12, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

~ 

protected by emergent 

biosolutions" 

Emergent BioDefense Operations Lansing Inc 

3500 N. Martin Luther King Jr. B:vd 

Lansing, MI 48906 

t 5173271500 

r 5173271501 

\vww.emergentblosolutlons.com 

As a growing regional business in mid-Michigan whose headquarters are located in Maryland, we are 

greatly supportive of the Sun Country proposal requesting additional non-stop flights per day to DCA 

from Lansing and returns. 

Emergent employees currently fly to and from Lansing/DCA over seven hundred (700) times per 

year. The additional direct flights from Lansing would notably benefit our company by adding 

convenient opportunities for travel with very little commuting time to our faCility. This proposal not 

only enhances our business travel but enables mid-Michigan to gain exposure in expanding business 

markets. We strongly encourage the passing of this proposal and will continue to be an active 

proponent of the Lansing Regional Airport with our corporate travel. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

5~ 

Adam Havey 

President 
II., FARM BUREAU 

.18® INSURANCE F ARM BuREAU MUTUAL -FARM BUREAU LiFE - FARM BuREft,L' GeNERAL 

7373 west Soginow HIghway, Box,yJ40J l~ngc M!chlgon 48909-7rx:fJ 

Phone (51 7) 32~ 7(}X) 

October 8, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

REF: Sun Country Airlines Application #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

As one of the many insurance companies headquartered in Mid-Michigan, Farm Bureau Insurance 

strongly supports the Sun Country Airlines proposal (referenced above) to provide non-stop air 

service between Lansing and Washington DC. 

The insurance sector is a major part of the Mid-Michigan economy, and non-stop air service to our 

nation's capitol fills an important need for Farm Bureau, the area insurance industry, and the 

region. 

Our parent organization, Michigan Farm Bureau, represents Michigan agriculture through its 

legislative and governmental activities. This important work on behalf of tens of thousands of 

Michigan farmers requires dozens of trips to Washington DC every year. A number of these trips 

involve local farmers, so the new air service will benefit not only bUSiness, but individuals in our 

region. 

The Sun Country air service would have a real grassroots community impact in Mid-Michigan and 

provide a critical service for the business sector. Our organization urges your approval of the Sun 

Country Application. It would mean so much to the growth and future of our region. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

c:FR~ 

Jim Robinson 

Executive Vice-President 

Farm Bureau Insurance 
October, 7, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

REF: Sun Country Airlines Application #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

This letter is to express our strong support of the Sun Country Airlines Application 

(referenced above), which would provide non-stop air service between Washington DC and the 

Greater Lansing, Michigan, area. 

Farm Bureau Insurance is one of several major insurance companies headquartered in 

Mid-Michigan. Non-stop service to Washington DC would be of vital importance to the 

insurance companies in this region. 

In addition, our parent organization, Michigan Farm Bureau, is heavily involved in 

legislative activities that benefit Michigan agriculture and Michigan farmers. These activities 

require frequent trips to our nation's capitol. Local farmers are also part of these trips, so the 

new service would benefit the Mid-Michigan community on the grassroots level. 

We believe there is a strong business and community need for the Sun Country air 

service proposed for Lansing, and we respectfully request your approval of the Sun Country 

application. Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Vic Verchereau 

Vice-President of Marketing 

Farm Bureau Insurance 
October 8, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Please accept this letter of support for the Sun Country Airlines application for landing slots into 

Washington's Regan National Airport (DCA) in Washington DC. 

Lansing is the home of Michigan's state government, Michigan State University, several major 

insurance companies, General Motors, hundreds of state associations and a vibrant corporate 

community whose needs for air service have been demonstrated to far exceed the commitment 

currently being demonstrated by the airlines serving our region. Despite the fact that Washington 

DC is the number one destination for business air travelers in the region, Lansing is without direct 

service to the nation's capital. 

In addition to providing much needed direct flights to Washington DC, the proposed new air 

service would establish a complete routing itinerary of Minneapolis - Lansing - DCA and return, 

which would give Lansing two additional flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul as well. This is the type 

of service the region has been requesting since Independent Air left the market in 2005. 

Hea~thyair service at the Lansing Capital Region International Airport is a crucial component of 

the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau's mission, which is to attract visitors of all 

types to the region. The new service would help increase both business and leisure travel, 

generating an influx of tourism spending in the community. 

Our community looks forward to the opportunity to benefit from the acceptance of the Sun 

Country Airlines application and critical direct air service to Washington DC. Thank you in 

advance for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely, 

W. Lee H1adki 

President & CEO 

500 East Michigan Avenue. SUite 180 1 Lansing. Michigan 48912/ Office: 517.487.0077/ Fax: 517.487.5151/ www.lanstng.OIg 
October 13, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Indian Trails, an intercity ground transportation provider, supports Sun Country's 

application to provide non-stop service from Lansing, Michigan to Washington D. C. 

Mass transportation in general needs a cooperative effort by all major public and private 

mass transportation providers, and I should take this opportunity to express this view. I 

would hope in the immediate future, you would encourage transit, rail, air and motor 

coach to develop constructive dialogue to build a system in our country to be public 

friendly. Encouraging people to leave their cars at home, and using a system that works 

for them is the only solution for the energy, congestion and environmental issues facing 

our nation. 

Michigan has been hit harder than most regions due to the economic downturn. We 

welcome a weIl- balanced transportation system that will encourage economic 

development and benefit all of us as we struggle to regain our economic stability. 

Sincerely yours, 

Gordon Mackay, President 

Indian Trails, Inc. / Michigan Flyer 
CHAIRPERSON 

DEBBIE DE LEON 

DlS1RI{TJ 

VICE..('HAIRPERSON 

DALE COP EDGE 

DISTRICT 6 

VICE-GHAlRPERSON PRO TEM 

RANDY SCHAFER 

J)fSTRlCT /J 

VICTOR G. CELENTDIO 

DlSTRlCr J 

BRIAN McGRAIN 

lJISTRlCT 3 

REBECCA BAHAR-COOK 

lJJSTRICr -I 

ANDY SCHOR 

DlST1UCT5 

TODD TENNIS 

DlSTRlCrMARC THOMAS 

f)f.\TRl(T8 

CAROL KOENIG 

DISTRICTS' 

MARK GREBNER 

J)fSTRlCT 10 

DIANNE HOLMAN 

f)fSTRf( 'T II 

DEB NOLAN 

f)fSTR1C'1 11 

STEVE DOliGAN 

DlSlRlCT 1-1 

LAVRADAVIS 

[)/S7R1CT 15 

DON VICKERS 

[)fSTRlCr 16 

Ingham County Board of Commissioners 

October 11, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Dear Secretary laHood: 

INGHAM COUNTY COURTHOUSE 

P.O. BOX 319 

MASON. MlCHIGAN 48854"()319 

TELEPHONE; (517) 676·7200 

FAX: (517) 676·7264 

~bsite: www.inghom.o.1l 

BECKY BENNETT 

BOARD COORDINATOR 

On behalf of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, I am pleased to 

express support for the approval of the Sun Country Application referenced 

above. 

Non-stop service to Washington DC continues to be in great demand in the 

Greater Lansing Region. This service would replace the successful 

Independence Air service that was lost in 2005 due to the airline bankruptcies. 

Since then, Lansing has remained one of the few state capitals without non-stop 

services to Washington. 

Additionally, Lansing, MI air service, has suffered tremendously as a result of 

airline bankruptcies and airline mergers in recent years. Our Capital City Region 

has felt the detrimental loss in the substantial decline of 348,948 total 

passengers (-59.1%) processed through our Capital Region International Airport 

from 2004-2009. This loss has had a rippling effect on our local economy. 

It is with great anticipation that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners 

looks forward to having the void in airline service for Mid-Michigan filled by the 

new Sun Country services and respectfully requests your favorable 

consideration. Your approval of the Sun Country slot application will be greatly 

appreciated. 

~JJ~ Debbie De Leon 

Chairperson 

Ingham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer 
October B, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond l. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Honorable Raymond l. LaHood: 

I ' r j ( I J I I ~ I' I I i I 

On behalf of Lansing Economic Area Partnership (Leap, Inc.), I want to express our strong support of the 

recently submitted application for Sun Country air service between DCA and Lansing, Michigan. 

This is a very important air service development opportunity for Greater Lansing. Sun County's 

proposed routes would directly link Washington, D.C. to Central Michigan - the seat of state 

government, the third largest metropolitan area in the state (exceeds 450,000), and a very significant 

economic center. The region is also withIn 90 minutes ground travel to 90% ofthe state's population. 

Capital Region International Airport is designated a Foreign Trade Zone in addition to passenger service, 

and is Central Michigan's only U.S. Port of Entry, allowing goods and passengers to clear customs 

through the airport's state-of-the-art Federal Inspection Station. This tremendous transportation facility 

is fully equipped to accommodate this added service. 

The Greater Lansing region boasts a diverse industry base. In addition to state government as the 

region's largest employer, it is also home to some of the most technologically advanced automobile 

manufacturing assemblies in the world, one of the world's leading scientific centers in Michigan State 

University, the largest law school in the country, and more than 14,000 companies across strong sectors 

of business including insurance, financial services, healthcare, information technology, bio-sciences and 

others. 

Greater Lansing is a growing region, and the addition of this air service would greatly enhance our region 

by provided this direct link to the nation's capital and its service hub to rest of the world. Leap is 

pleased to support this application. 

Best resa'dsf; 

~~y PreSident and CEO 
LANS! 

October IS, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond l. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

• • • 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

I am writing to show my support for the above referenced application for Sun Country Airlines. 

As a business that operates several tourism-based facilities and events, having transportation opportunities for 

travelers to visit the Lansing region is key. Our convention center, stadium, market and other community events 

(such as our multi-day music festival) rely on variety of transportation service options to bring visitors in for 

business and leisure. Without options in traveling to key cities and airport hubs like Washington, D.C., our business 

is at a competitive disadvantage. 

The Lansing region, as a capital city, finds it imperative for business to have a direct connection to our nation's 

capital and a key ingredient in the success of our region. The application allows lansing to have more offerings for 

connecting flights and enhances our regions' efforts to attract tourism and hospitality. 

Given the economic conditions of Michigan, and Lansing region as a part, this application would only encourage 

further business development and economic growth to an area that needs this endorsement from the U.S. 

Department of Transportation. This could be seen as an additional catalyst for added flights and carrier access to 

our region. 

Thank you for allowing me to express my support and your approval for the Sun Country Airlines application would 

be greatly appreciated. 

Scott Keith 

President & CEO-lEPFA 

lansing Entertainment &:- Public Facilities Authority 

:.-------.;;: 

(X)OI.EY 

1 .. \\\ :'CIIOOL -----

" i I ~ I U M ----

333 E. Michigan Avenue, lansing, MI 48933 

Ph. (517) 4837400 - Fax: (517) 483 7439 

www.1epfa.com 

vkmbcr I'<;; Partner ofw;tBMoo GJ Q~(qg 
LANSING~ALCHAMBER 

Wednesday. October 06. 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Tmnsportalion 

United States Oepartment of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

On behalf of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce I would like to ofter our 

support and request approval orthe Sun Country Application #DOT-OST-2000-7182. 

Washington DC is the top travel destination from Lansing. MI. This service would 

replace the successful Independence Air service that was lost in 2005 due to airline 

bankruptcies. Sinee this time, Lansing has remained one of the few state capitals without 

non-stop service to our nation's capital. 

The Greater J .ansing region hac; a population of over 450,000 and is located within 90 

miles 0(90% urthe stale's population. Capital Region International Airport has 

effectively implemented an airline development strategy that includes the designation of 

Port r .nnsing, Fedeml Inspection Station and Foreign Trade Zone. 'Ibcse recent 

developments have been instrumental in establishing a new partnership with Sun Country 

Airlines thut includes direct service from Lansing to Las Vegas, Orlando, Ft. Meyers, 

Cancun and Jrunnica. Additional service to Washington DC will fiJI a void in airline 

travel for Mid Michigan. 

Your approval of the Sun Country SIOl application is greatly appreciated. Thank you for 

the c(msidemtion. 

Sincerciy, 

~0MAil"'--t Tim Daman 

President & CEO 

500 E. Michigan Avenue. Suite 200 

lansing. MI 48912 

P 517.487.6)40 

r 517.484.6910 

www.bnsingchambcr.org 
OFFICE OF THE 

CONTROLLER 

Michigan State University 

305 Administration Building 

East Lansing. MI 

48824-1046 

517/355-5020 

FAX: 517/432-5269 

http://ctlr.msu.edul 

MSU is an affirmative-action, 

equal-opportunity amployer. 

MICHIGAN STATE 

UNIVERSITY 

October 7,2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

The major goal of the Capital Region International Airport and the Mid Michigan 

Business Travel Coalition is to provide air service from the Lansing area to top 

destinations. Prior to 2005 and after Independence Air left the mid-Michigan area, we 

recognized Washington, DC as the top destination for mid-Michigan businesses and 

have diligently worked to bring in air service to support these businesses and state 

government. Michigan State University (MSU) flies approximately 1600 flights per year 

between Lansing and Washington, DC. 

As the individual responsible for overseeing business operations, including travel 

support for MSU, I am well aware of the University's need for this service and the degree 

to which MSU could support such service. MSU has a governmental affairs office in 

Washington, DC which draws out staff from our East Lansing campus to Capitol Hill. 

MSU has strong ties to the federal government and its agencies in Washington, as 

Michigan State has a major role in research supported by the federal government. For 

example, in the fiscal year 2009 - 2010, MSU worked with 16 federal agencies on 2200 

federal projects for a total of $292 million. 

In addition, Michigan State University earned the privilege of building the Facility for 

Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) on its campus. Funded by the Department of Energy Office 

of Science, Office of Nuclear Physics, this state of the art endeavor is drawing scientists 

from across the world and support and interest from Washington, DC. FRIB will cost 

approximately $600 million to establish and will take several years to design and build. 

Michigan State University's core mission is to advance knowledge and transform lives 

through the provision of an outstanding education to its students, conducting research 

benefiting the world, and advancing outreach, engagement, and economic development 

activities that are research-driven, and lead to a better quality of life for individuals and 

communities around the globe. A major contributing factor to the accomplishment of this 

mission is our ability to access and work with our country's leaders and the federal 

agencies supporting the framework of our country. 

Michigan State University is one of the top 10 research institutions in the United States. 

Sun Country's air service from Lansing to Washington, DC will not only support our 
The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

October 7,2010 

Page 2 

research efforts, but it will also boost Michigan State University's endeavors to do so in 

an efficient and effective manner. Further, MSU is committed to the economic 

development of the region and the state of Michigan. Sun Country's service will 

contribute to this effort by affording jobs in the greater Lansing area in addition to 

providing non-stop service to our nation's capital. 

Thank you for your consideration of Sun Country's proposal. Michigan State University 

is hopeful that you will endorse their non-stop service between Michigan's capital city 

and our nation's capital. 

Sincerely, 

David B. Brower 

Ast Vice President, CFO 

and Controller 

Chairman, Mid Michigan Business Travel Coalition 

c: Lou Anna K Simon, President 

Steven Webster, Vice President for Governmental Affairs 
MID-MICHIGAN 

~-=-~_ /1_"'_* __ _ '-' 

SUSIN ESS TRAVEL 

COALITION 

October 6, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. Lahood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

The Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition represents more than 200 businesses, 

governmental and educational organizations in the Mid-Michigan area. Our mission is to 

work toward the development of the strongest possible air service in our region. To that 

end, we write this letter to support and request approval of the Sun Country application 

referenced above. 

The members of our organization collectively spend approximately $25 million per year 

on air travel. Our periodic surveys of our member's travel habits consistently show that 

Washington DC is the number one destination of our business travelers. As the home of 

a thriving manufacturing and insurance sector, Michigan State University, more than 400 

state associations and as Michigan's state capital, direct service to Washington DC is of 

vital importance to our region. 

The Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition views strong air service as a critical 

component of our region's economic growth strategy. We also view direct service to 

Washington DC as something that addresses a demonstrated community need. 

Accordingly, we would greatly appreciate your approval of the Sun Country slot 

application. 

Sincerely, 

Ross P. Woodstock 

Administrator 

Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition 
October 12, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. laHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United State Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Selected One of Forbes' 

Top 200 Small Companies 

RE: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

I write this letter to support and request approval of the Sun Country Airlines application 

referenced above. Our company is a $140 million firm located in Lansing, Michigan with 

a total of 600 employees. Over 100 of these employees fly from Lansing on a regular 

basis and our firm places a strong alliance on cost competitive· and available airline 

schedules. 

Neogen Corporation is respected as one of the top companies in the world providing 

solutions for food safety and animal safety. I'm sure you know of national headlines that 

appear on a very frequent basis related to these problems. As a part of our business, 

we work closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Food and Drug 

Administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and also at times with the 

U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. As I am sure you can appreciate, senior members of 

all of these agencies are located in Washington D.C. making our travel to that 

destination most important. 

Because of our close working relationship with Michigan State University and the 

various state agencies, we are aware of their need also to have convenient access to 

the nation's capital. 

On behalf of our company and the State of Michigan, we would greatly appreciate your 

approval of the Sun Country slot application. 

Cordially, 

~U.l1 James L. Herbert 

Chairman & CEO 

620 Lesher Place, Lansing MI48912 

517/372-9200 • 800/234-5333 • fax: 517/372-0108 

neogen-info@neogen.com • www.neogen.com 
October 15, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Kindly accept this as my letter of support and request for your 

favorable consideration of the Sun Country application for gate space 

at Washington DC's Reagan National Airport. 

I believe that Sun Country's proposed daily route between LAN and 

DCA will be well-received by government, business and personal 

travelers alike. The addition of a non-stop, direct flight from midMichigan to DCA will provide our community and local regional airport 

significant benefits while improving the efficiency and economy of 

such travel. 

Thank-you for your service and consideration; we look forward to 

your approval of the Sun Country application. 

Sincerely, 

~7:$~'( Robert T. McBride 

Grand Ledge, MI 
0PNC 

October 14, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. Lahood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Depa11ment of Transp0l1ation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Please accept this letter of support for the approval of the Sun Country Application 

referenced above for landing slots to enable non-stop services from Lansing, MI to 

Washington DC. 

The Sun Country air service would have a great impact for our region's economic growth 

and provide a critical service for our business and community sectors. Our organization 

respectfully requests your approval of the Sun Country application. 

Sincerely, 

-~74.S'~~~'~~ 

Timothy A. Salisbury U . Regional President 

PNC Bank 

The PNC Financial Services Group 

120 North Washington Square Suite 500 Lansing Michigan 48933 
13 October 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #OOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

I am writing in strong support of Sun Country's application to serve the Capital City International 

Airport in Lansing, Michigan. 

You have no doubt heard from many governmental, education and business leaders on this issue 

because accessible service between our nation's capital and Michigan's capital city is a critical 

component of regional economic growth for Mid Michigan. As a small business, our case is 

equally compelling. Much of our work is in the governmental sector, including education, 

transportation and housing. OUf clients include both state and federal agencies. While we make 

good use of technology to communicate, face-la-face meetings are essential to conduct current 

business and secure new business. Washington DC is our number one travel destination. 

Inefficient service costs our business time and money. 

Direct service from Lansing to Washington DC would help our business grow and prosper. It is 

service that our firm wouid use on a regular basis. 

We sincerely hope that you can review and act on this matter soon. Your approval would be a 

signal to our region that this administration supports the transportation underpinnings of 

economic growth. 

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS 

1123 IURNER SIREII. SUIIf 101 lANSING. MICHIGAN 48906 - 4363 517 . 267 . 9800 fO Sll 261 . 981S 
October 14, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond 1. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

RW Armstrong strongly supports the Sun Country Airlines application for slot allocation 

at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Having been a mid-Michigan 

business for the past twelve years, we know of the need for convenient direct flight access 

to the nation's capital. 

Providing direct flight service to DCA will have a demonstrable effect both in time and 

cost savings for small businesses, such as ours, and, even more so, for large employers 

such as Michigan state govermnent, Michigan State University and General Motors (the 

three largest employers in the mid-Michigan area). Having the local cOllvenience of a 

world class regional airport AND direct flight service to DCA strongly supports the Vision 

100 goals. 

Thank you for this opportunity to offer the support ofRW Armstrong. We eagerly await 

your decision to allocate the DCA slots to Sun Country Airlines. 

Sincerely, 

RW Armstrong 

?/~C--{(~aJ;:) 

Michael L. Borta, P .E. 

Vice President 

I Capital City Airport, 2nd Floor 14100 Capital City Blvd. I lansing, M148906 I PH 517.327.1980 II TF 800.321.6959 II FX 517.327.1982 'f r.vArmstrong.com 
RIc~,1ULoP . . .......... "" ..... V~;S !;N 

I 5263 Club Course Dr. II Bath. Micbipn 4 08 

October 6, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

rn ·.boo.com 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - DOT -OST -2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

I am the retired CEO of an insurance company in Lansing, Michigan and have been active in 

our community for several decades. Part of that civic involvement has been to serve on the 

Board of Directors of the Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition, which is an organization 

of members of our regional business community that is dedicated to improving air service to 

the Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan. 

The merger of large airlines has had an extremely damaging impact on air service to our area. 

As the state capital and home of a major research university, Michigan State University, the 

demand for direct service to Washington DC has been at the top of our agenda for a number 

of years. We did have successful service to DC with Independence Air that was discontinued 

due to that airlines bankruptcy. We continue to have the demand and the Sun Country 

Airlines service would fulfill that need. 

I urge you to give approval to this application and help us serve the demonstrated needs of our 

community. Thank you for your consideration. 

Richard A. Rasmussen 
Since 1929 ... Experience Makes the Difference 

October 14, 20 I 0 

The Honorable Raymond L. Lahood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

As a member of the Mid-Michigan Business Travel Coalition representing more than 200 

businesses, governmental and educational organizations in the Mid-Michigan area, we strongly 

desire working toward the increased development of the air service in our region. We are 

writing this letter to support and request approval of the Sun Country application referenced 

above. 

We desperately need the direct flights to Washington DC. Personally, we would use it upwards 

of 12 times per year, round trip. The members of our Travel Coalition collectively spend 

approximately $25 million per year on air travel. Washington DC is the number one destination 

of our business travelers. As the home of a thriving manufacturing and insurance sector, 

Michigan State University, more than 400 state associations and as Michigan's state capital, 

direct service to Washington DC is of vital importance to us. 

We would greatly appreciate your approvaJ of the Sun Country slot application. 

Charles Levy 

President 

1400 Abbott Road, Suite 440' East Lansing, MY 48823' 517.337.8415· 800.456.5305' fax: 517.337.8416 

www.shlnberginsurance.com·sl1inberg@sinbergagency.com 
JENNIFER M. GRANHOLM GOVERNOR 

STATE OF MICIDGAN 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

LANSING 

October 18, 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

KIRK T. STEUDLE DIRECTOR 

The Michigan Department of Transportation supports the application of Sun Country Airlines for 

two slot exemptions at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. This action would allow 

the airline to begin providing direct service between the State Capital of Lansing and 

Washington, D.C. Lack of such direct service has resulted in additional expenses and wasted 

time for Lansing travelers, including state employees, negatively impacting their ability to access 

government and conduct business in the Washington, D.C. area. 

Because direct service from the State Capital in Lansing to Washington, D.C. would produce 

significant cost and time savings, it is of great importance to the State of Michigan and other 

regional business travelers. Strong air service has also been identified as a critical component of 

an economic growth strategy for the State Capital region. 

For these reasons, we would urge you to approve the application submitted by Sun Country 

Airlines. 

LH-LAN.o (01/03) 

Sincerely, 

I(jrk T. Steudle 

Director 

MURRAY D. VAN WAGONER BUILDING' P.O. BOX 30050' LANSING. MICHIGAN 48909 

www.michigan.gov • (517) 373-2090 
STATE OF MINNESOTA 

Office of Governor Tim Pawlenty 

130 StatE' Capitol + 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard + Saint Paul, MN 55155 

October 21, 2010 

Honorable Ray LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Mr. Secretary: #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

MN Airlines, LLC, doing business as Sun Country Airlines, recently filed an application for 

an available landing and takeoff slot at Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, 

D.C. With this slot, Sun Country Airlines would be able to include flights from Minneapolis 

through Lansing, Michigan, to Reagan National in Washington, D.C. 

For many Minnesotans, this additional service would likely provide a cost-effective travel 

alternative to the nation's capitol, and support further economic development in our state. 

Sun Country Airlines is well known in Minnesota for its excellent service and low-cost 

fares. Currently, Sun Country Airlines cannot fly to Washington Reagan airport because of 

the slot constraints. Awarding of the available takeoff and landing slots to Sun Country 

would provide an immediate competitive fare environment for passengers to and from 

Minneapolis and Lansing that is missing today. The enhanced Washington service would 

also have an immediate impact in that more jobs would be created both in Minnesota and 

in Michigan to operate and handle these flights. 

I would very much appreciate your favorable consideration of Sun Country's application. 

~in~ __ ~~ ____ _ 

Tim Pawlenty 

Governor 

c: Stan Gadek, President and CEO, Sun Country Airlines 

Voice: (651) 296-3391 or (800) 657-3717 Fax: (651) 296-2089 TOO: (651) 296-0075 or (800) 657-3598 

Web site: http://wwvv.governor.state.mn.us An Equal Opportunity Employer 

Printed on recycled paper containing 15~o post consumer material 
TItE 

JOHN 

TRUSCOTT 

GROUP 

Oct. B 2010 

The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave. SE 

Washington, D.C. 20590 

RE: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-71B2 

Dear Secretary laHood: 

(am writing in support of the application by Sun Country Airlines referenced 

above. 

As a state capital, non-stop air service to Washington, D.C., is in high demand 

in the Greater Lansing region. As a frequent business traveler to the nation's 

capital, my employees and I are forced to either drive 1.5 hours to another 

airport or have an extended layover in an airport in order to travel to 

Washington. 

lanSing travelers have repeatedly shown their desire for nonstop travel to 

Washington when that option has been available. However, because of airline 

bankruptcies and nationwide restructuring, our market has been left 

underserved by air carriers and without nonstop service to Washington. Sun 

Country's proposed new service would fill this void in airline service in 

Lansing and inject much-needed competition into our air travel market. 

The addition of new, nonstop service to Washington, D.C., also will save my 

business unnecessary costs by reducing travel time to this important 

destination. This is an important consideration for many businesses in our 

community, and would be a new tool for economic development In our 

region. 

( look forward to being able to use this service for my frequent trips to 

Washington, D.C. Your approval of Sun Country's application is greatly 

appreciated. 

SinCerelY,~ 

c=-'---:'-..,r - ~~D 

John Truscott, 

President I H w. An~n Str,.." Suit< iWl' UMn~. hli ~IiY II 

il7.""HS .8-IM I'HO'IE' '17 ~I' 7'1711.~X 
}rune!) L ~btrg'tar 

Itbairman 

Jt.~. 3}tnUllt nf i.tPttlltntattues 

~ommitttt on ~ran£iportatton anb 3Jntra£)tructure 

a:~btugtou, 19([: 20515 

October 18,2010 

jfoon Jf.. ;§tilica 

llaniling j!epubltcan ~mtbtr 

David He)'lll5feld, CIU.r of Staff 

Ward W. McCarragher. a>tef Comw James W. Coon 11. Republkan Chi<>f of Staff 

The Honorable Ray H. LaHood 

Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jers~y Avenue S.E. 

Washington,D.C. 20590 

Dear Mr. Secretary: #DOT -OST -2000-7182 

In the interest of promoting competition at Washington National Airport, an airport with 

special significance to the competitive balance in the airline industry, we write to encourage the 

Department of Transportation (DOl) to allocate one pair of slot exemptions in the current 

allocation proceeding! to Sun Country Airlines. As a new-entrant, low-cost carrier, Sun Country 

would be well positioned to offer low fares and innovative service to travelers between Washington, 

D.C.; Lansing, Michigan; and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. 

National Airport plays a critical role in providing access to the nation's capital for nearly 20 

million passengers each year. At the same time, however, characteristics of the airport's 

configuration limit the volume of competing flights that can be operated at any given time. 

Congress has recognized that National Airport's unique public purpose and its physical constraints 

require a heightened sensitivity to the vitality of competition at the airport. 2 The DOT should 

therefore accord great weight to any proposal for new service that would increase competition. 

Upon reviewing Sun Country's application for slot exemptions in the current allocation 

proceeding, we are persuaded that Sun Country's proposal presents the DOT with an opportunity to 

open National Airport to a new entrant that promises low fares and innovative service linking 

Washington with important cities in the Upper Midwest. Sun Country proposes to operate daily, 

one-stop service between National Airport and Minneapolis/St. Paul, via Lansing. This service 

would provide travelers in both Lansing and the Twin Cities with a critically important alternative to 

existing service offered by network carriers through dominated hub airports where the carriers 

already charge high fares. . 

The low-cost service proposed by Sun Country is particularly important for travelers in our 

home state of Minnesota. Sun Country proposes to offer same-plane, one-stop service between 

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and National Airport at an average fare of $145, which 

I Stt U.S. Dep't ofTransp., Dkt. No. DOT-OST-2000-7182. 

2 See, e.g., 49 V.S.c. § 41718(b) (2010) (listing factors for evaluating applications for within-perimeter slot exemptions, 

with emphasis on preservation or enhancement of competition). 
The Honorable Ray H. LaHood 

October 18, 2010 

Page 2 

would be significantly lower than the average fare of $222 in the market today, according to Sun 

Country's application. Daily service to the nation's capital, offered at such affordable fares, would 

invigorate low-cost competition in the Twin Cities, where the average fare in the fttst quarter of 

2010 was some $50 higher than the national average and where Delta Air Lines and Northwest 

Airlines (which were then in the process of merging) together accounted for an overwhelming 

majority - 67 percent - of annual passenger enplanements in 2009. 3 Sun Country's proposed service 

from the Twill Cities to National Airport would provide travelers in the Twin Cities with a 

reasonable alternative to existing service and would likely encourage further competition and 

innovation among airlines that compete in the market. Most importantly, it would provide 

Minnesota travelers with an option to travel to Washington at less expense. 

A similar measure of benefits would flow to consumers in the Lansing-National Airport 

market. The average yield (a measure of revenue per passenger-mile) in the fourth quarter of 2009 

in that market was approximately 35 percent higher than the average yield among the top 5,000 

origin and destination markets, according to data reported to the DOT. Sun Country would offer 

the only nonstop service between National Airport and Lansing, an important state capital, and 

proposes to do so at reasonable fares as much as 20 percent less than the lowest published fare in 

the market, according to its application. Consumers in both Washington and Lansing would benefit. 

We are particularly pleased to note that Sun Country's proposal comes at a time when a 

question mark looms over the future of other low-cost carriers' ability and incentive to keep fares 

low. Regulators historically have regarded low-cost carriers as essential to tempering the 

anticompetitive effects of mergers, but the pending Southwest-AirTran merger raises colorable 

questions about whether some low-cost carriers may begin to follow their competitors' pricing 

practices rather than reverse them. Sun Country's entry into high-priced markets such as those at 

issue in this application will create a new anchor for low-cost service and will bring needed low-cost 

competition to National Airport. 

An award of two slot exemptions to Sun Country for the service proposed in its application 

would preserve the delicate competitive balance at Washington National Airport. We hope the 

DOT will give these views full and fair consideration as it examines the various proposals for slot 

exemptions in the current proceeding. 

With all best wishes, 

Sincerely, 

a 

airman, Committee on 

ransportation and Infrastructure 

Member of Congress 

3 Unless otherwise indicated, data on relevant markets was compiled by the Government Accountability Office from 

information reported to the DOT 
The Honorable Ray LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey A venue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

ltlnitcd ~tatcs ~cnatf WASHINGTON, DC 20510 

October 21,2010 

#DOT -OST -2000-7182 

We \vTite in strong support of Sun Country Airline's recent application for an available 

landing and takeoff slot at Ronald Reagan National Airport. The application is for a night 

between Minneapolis, ivfN and Washington, D.C.. via Lansing. MI. 

Sun Country Airlines would be a new entrant into Reagan National Airport, expanding 

competition in a limited market. This flight path would also boost fare competition for travelers 

in Minnesota, Michigan, and the Washington, D.C. areas. It would be the first entrant to Reagan 

National Airport from Michigan's state capital in Lansing, and would increase night options 

between Minnesota and Washington, DC. It would provide an immediate economic benefit in 

both Minnesota and Michigan. resulting in lower farcs and increased job opportunities to service 

the new flights. 

The proposed service would be of obvious benefit to tvlinncsotans. It would create jobs 

for the Minnesota-based airline Sun Country Airlines. and improve their growing status as a lowcost, high-quality carrier. Minnesota is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies. worldrenowned hospitals and medical centers, and tourist destinations. Low-cost, competitive service 

is essential to both businesses and travelers in the stale. This service would also increase the 

partnership opportunities bet\veen the University of Minnesota and Michigan State University, 

two of our nation's best research universities. Finally, it would save travelers millions of dollars 

in lower fares, making it easier for Minnesotans to travel to our nation's capital. 

M iehigan would also bene tit from this new route. The Lansing region caters to state and 

federal agencies, non-profit organizations. and many growing businesses that require 

transportation to D.C. as a part of their professions. It is inconvenient that Lansing, as the capital 

of Michigan, currently lacks a direct flight to Washington, D.C. Lansing is a convenient 

tenninal for the 90 percent of Michigan residents who live within 90 minutes of the city. 

Michigan travelers would clearly benefit from the competition and reduction in airfare provided 

by Sun Country. In addition, the Lansing region is home to Michigan State University. a lOp licr 

research institution. Just last ycar, MSU received a major contract from the U.S. Department of 

Energy to house the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams. which will attract researchers and industry 

internationally. A direct tlight from Lansing to D.C. is imperative to support the cconomic 

developmcnt of the region. 
Sun Country is uniquely qualified among the applicants for this slot, in that it is th~ only 

rOllte that meets all five criteria that the Department ofTranspoJ1ation must consider under the 

applicable statute. 

In a time of job loss and rising air fares. this application presents an opportunity to 

provide an economic boost to three metro areas and assist American consumers and workers 

simultaneously. We appreciate your careful consideration of this request. Please do not hesitate 

to contact any of us should you have any questions or concerns. 

AI Franken 
The Honorable Raymond L. LaHood 

Secretary of Transportation 

United States Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Ref: Sun Country Airlines Application - #DOT-OST-2000-7182 

Dear Secretary LaHood: 

Please carefully consider and approve Sun Country Airlines request for weekly air service 

between Lansing Michigan's Capital Region International Airport and Washington DC's 

Reagan National Airport. This air service will provide tremendous benefit to the over-all 

economic vitality of Mid-Michigan. 

We believe this to be an incredibly important service to our State and region. As Michigan's 

State Capitol, Lansing is centrally located in Michigan. The convenience of Lansing's Capital 

Region International Airport to business travelers will prove to be a welcome asset to not 

only Lansing business travelers but also to those from all over Mid-Michigan. Lansing is 

also home to one of General Motors newest and most technologically advanced, state of the 

art, 4 billion dollar automobile manufacturing plants and also to Michigan State University, 

one of the World's leading Research and Technology Centers. 

Research has indicated that service from Lansing to Washington DC is necessary. We 

believe the market will respond and the flight service will quickly become a viable and 

sustainable resource to business travelers in Lansing and throughout the Mid-Michigan 

area. We also believe that Michigan business and pleasure travelers will receive significant 

benefit from having the ability to utilize regularly scheduled flight options, at reasonable 

fares, to and from Lansing and Minneapolis as detailed in Sun Country Airlines request. 

Thank you in advance for your careful consideration to this vitally important issue that can 

and will create a positive economic impact on the great State of Michigan. 

Respectfully Submitted, 

Ernie R. Hedberg III 

Senior Account Manager 

Young Broadcasting of Lansing 

WLNSTV-6 

WHTVTV-18 

(517) 372-8282 

Young Broadcasting of Lansing, Inc. WLNS-TV 2820 E. Saginaw Street Lansing, Michigan 48912 

Phone (517) 372-8282 Fax (517) 374-7610