CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — During the time the Corpus Christi International Airport has been open, officials said not much has changed.
Right now, there are three airlines you can choose from which includes United Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest.
However, soon that could change.
“After Houston I go to Chicago," said passenger Andre Allen. "After Chicago, then I go to Pennsylvania.”
Allen said he is visiting his mom, and every time he flies, there's no other option other than to fly from Corpus Christi.
“It's closer to Victoria," he said. "So, its easier to travel from here. The commute is easier."
This is why the Air Service Incentive Plan is being brought to the Corpus Christi City Council on Tuesday.
“People that are flying in the number of seats," said CCIA Aviation Director Kevin Smith. "Out of this market, we’re at about 80 percent load factor, which is really good."
Smith said 65 percent of people from Corpus Christi flying to big cities are driving to other airports to get to their destination. This is where the first part of the plan comes in.
“We’re asking local businesses to pledge to fly out from Corpus Christi International airport before flying out of San Antonio, Austin or Houston. If its within a certain dollar amount," he said.
As more people fly out from Corpus Christi, Smith said its likely to draw the attention of new airlines and that means an increased number of non stop destinations.
“The 4 markets we’re targeting right now are Las Vegas and Denver and Orlando and New Orleans,” said Smith.
It doesn't stop there. Smith and CCIA are thinking bigger.
“If we can get Mexico service. We would consider that a huge win for our community.”
CCIA said they need the community's support in the form of online feedback, to weigh in, click here.
