Letter to the Editor, originally appeared in The Lock Haven Express.
Ralph W. Stewart
State College
Strong air service is not a luxury for our region — it is a necessity. It is one of the most direct ways we stay connected to national markets, attract investment, retain talent and remain competitive in an increasingly connected economy.
Air service growth supports the industries that drive our regional economy. It strengthens our colleges and universities’ ability to attract research partners, conferences, and visitors. It supports healthcare systems that depend on visiting specialists and time-sensitive travel. It fuels tourism, outdoor recreation, and hospitality by making our region easier to reach for visitors who want to experience our communities, trails, and events.
That is why regional support is so important.
The Fly State College Fund, administered through the Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County, exists for one purpose: to support air service growth and sustainability at State College Regional Airport. Contributions to the Fly State College Fund help demonstrate regional commitment, support air service development efforts and strengthen our case with airline partners.
I encourage you to visit the Fly State College Fund website at https://flystatecollege.com/. Many small contributions add up and demonstrate community support better than a few large ones.
Together, we can strengthen regional access, support local businesses and invest in long-term economic vitality.
Ralph W. Stewart is Interim Executive Director of the Centre County Airport Authority.