Signs point to a May or perhaps June launch for Avelo Airlines flights to and from Lakeland, FL.
One unanswered question is whether the city between Tampa and Orlando will become a destination to and from Delaware.
The Enilria site reported that one of its subscribers reported that only Wilmington (ILG), New Haven, and Wilmington, NC have flights scheduled to Orlando beyond May.
The extended schedule triggered some criticism locally since a number of former destinations from ILG (Savannah and Charleston, SC being two examples) are not listed as seasonal routes.
There has been speculation that Avelo will shift its focus away from Orlando to Lakeland, which is a fairly easy drive to Disney parks and resorts, the Kennedy Space Center and other attractions.
Interestingly, signs have pointed to Orlando being a strong destination from Wilmington ILG with the current schedule showing between four and five weekly flights through early June.
Lakeland would offer an intriguing option to Delaware Valley travelers who might like not dealing with the busy Orlando terminal. Then again, Orlando’s airport gets decent ratings despite the crowds and lines that come with being the nation’s eighth largest airport. The airport might also aid Avelo in maintaining its low percentage of canceled and delayed flights.
Avelo, late last year, signed an eye-popping 15-year lease at Lakeland, much longer than the five-year deal in Delaware.
American has a smooth holiday season.
The lead carrier at Philadelphia International Airport canceled the fewest flights among the major carriers while operating more on-time flights than last year’s holiday period.
American was able to achieve this strong performance despite bad weather in some parts of the country and air traffic control delays.
That record has been harder to maintain with the recent bout of winter weather.
