slides: Is Providence’s Green Airport The New Logan?

Thursday, June 08, 2017
GoLocalWorcester Business Team

Norwegian direct to Europe

T.F. Green in its history has gone through a number of major changes, but now it is in the midst of its most transformative advancements.

Over the past few weeks, the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) has made a slew of new announcements of new airlines featuring direct flights. Historically, Providence has been at a significant disadvantage to serve travelers and especially business customers as Green offered few direct flights.

The last few weeks, however, have changed everything.

SEE BELOW THE NEW DIRECT FLIGHTS 

RIAC announced direct European flights from Green to five different European airports, then just a few months later touted a slew of new airlines and direct flights.

The three months of announcements create an opportunity for Green to be New England’s clear second airport, with its own advantages. The impact to the Rhode Island economy could be far bigger than 85 General Electric jobs or a new stadium for the PawSox. 

The transformation has multiple implications to Rhode Island’s economy. The arrival of new carriers means hundreds of new jobs, more growth at the airport and significant implications to attract business to Rhode Island and to continue to grow Rhode Island’s fourth largest business sector — tourism.

Governor Raimondo at ALLEGIANT annoncement

The Announcements

First in February, Norwegian announced international flights to Europe. This was the first time consumers could fly year round direct international flights. The Initial one-way fares of $65 dollars each way sparked the sale of 10,000 sales the first day.

Second, in late May, low-cost carrier Frontier announced expansion into New England and the reasons for selecting Green. 

“Frontier Airlines’ selection of Rhode Island for its New England hub is yet another example that T.F. Green Airport is one of America’s best airports,” said Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo. “We thank Frontier for choosing Rhode Island. Our state is on the move, and Frontier Airlines’ presence at TF Green is one more connection to jobs, businesses and economic opportunity for Rhode Islanders.”

Third, last week, Norwegian announced expansion and direct flights to the Caribbean.

Allegiant Addition

Fourth, on Tuesday of this week, Allegiant announced direct flights from Providence.

“Allegiant will be a great addition to Green Airport. Since we already offer a convenient travel experience, we expect more customers will be using our airport due to the addition of these low fares to these new markets. We thank Allegiant for selecting PVD and expect other new opportunities will become available in the coming months,” said Jonathan Savage, Chairman of the RIAC Board of Directors.    

"We know these flights will be popular, not only because of the great fares, but the initial destinations are also significant ones for our customers," said Iftikhar Ahmad, President and CEO of RIAC. "We welcome our new partner, Allegiant, to Green Airport (PVD) and look forward to adding even more new routes in the near future”.     

SEE BELOW THE NEW DIRECT FLIGHTS