INDEPENDENCE AIR is yet another airline name to remember but this time with a real pedigree. The new budget carrier has been created by Dulles-based (Virginia) Atlantic Coast Airlines essentially to hub out of Washington International Airport. The airline last week announced an order for 15 Airbus A320s, and will take a further 10 on lease. All will be fitted with live satellite TV. The inaugural Independence Air flights are scheduled for 16 June, and more will be added throughout July, August and September ” quickly building up to over 300 daily departures this summer. The new start-up is a result of the problems associated with United Airlines currently trading under bankruptcy protection. Most of the routes were previously operated under the United Express banner. In a separate statement United said it will work with a new group of regional air carriers to fly ongoing United Express Service out of Dulles and Chicago O'Hare. Those are Chautauqua Airlines, Republic Airlines and Shuttle America, recently announced as new partners in various United Express operations. Existing partners Air Wisconsin, Trans States and Mesa Air Group will also continue to serve O'Hare and Dulles, with SkyWest serving O'Hare as well.
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