About Bloomington

Flying High

Change is afoot at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). With the Delta/Northwest Airlines merger and the addition of Southwest Airlines service, 2009 promises to be an exciting and challenging year for this major hub. So, what is on the horizon for the airport and, more importantly, for airline travelers?

The Delta/Northwest Airlines merger, finalized in October 2008, no doubt forecasts big changes for MSP. Rest assured, the airport will remain an important fixture in American air travel, but visitors will notice the merger’s impact. Delta will maintain all of the current Northwest gates at the airport, 101 in total. However, the airline plans to increase service to two major U.S. destinations, Atlanta and New York, in 2009, in an effort to support the growth of its international enterprises. In addition, Delta plans to alter the planes on specific routes, matching plane size to route popularity, promising to save money and generate new revenue. Changes will be implemented gradually in order to prevent the headaches associated with previous mergers.

Another exciting change for Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is the addition of Southwest Airlines service in March 2009, the result of a diligent campaign led by the Metropolitan Airports Commission. What does Southwest service offer airline travelers? The airline will provide direct flights to Midway Airport in Chicago, allowing passengers to connect to 50 popular U.S. destinations, providing them with increased travel options. The airline is also expected to bring low prices, making air travel an affordable option. Southwest Airlines is located at Gate 7 in MSP’s Humphrey Terminal.

If you’re traveling to the Twin Cities, be prepared to enjoy all the benefits MSP has to offer in 2009. Happy flying!