Passenger jets on way to McCook?

McCOOK, Neb. -- A commercial airline with a stellar safety record and a preference for jet aircraft is eyeing a bid to provide essential air service at the McCook airport.

Aerodynamics Incorporated of Atlanta, Georgia, was granted an extension from the Department of Transportation last week stretching the deadline to submit EAS proposals to Monday, Nov. 16. The airline indicated the extension was necessary to allow more time to complete its necessary due diligence on the market and discussions with the city, according to documents filed with the Department of Transportation. The deadline was previously set for Nov. 4.

Aerodynamics has multiple operating bases in the U.S. and is a certified FAA 121 Air Carrier, according to its website. The airline touts its long-standing safety record and status as one of the elite few Platinum certified Part 121 operators in the world.

"Long recognized for its core value of operational excellence, ADI has served the industry for 55 years without incident or accident, one of only two companies operating Regional Jets in the supplemental 121 on-demand regime able to make this claim," according to the website.

The Embraer ERJ 145 passenger jet is Aerodynamics self-described aircraft of choice. The jet is capable of accommodating up to 50 passengers and specifically designed to fly medium sized groups short distances at greater speeds, according to the airline.

"The ERJ 145 has an impressive mission completion rate of 99.7 percent. The ERJ worldwide fleet has flown over fifteen million miles since its first flight in 1995 with zero fatalities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the safety of the Embraer ERJ 145," according to Aerodynamics passenger brochure.

More information on the airline is available at: www.flyadi.com

The DOT bid proposal for essential air service encourages applicants to contact the community before submitting a proposal, to help tailor to community needs. A week prior to the original proposal deadline, city staff indicated no information was available when asked about the number of airlines inquiring about air service at McCook Ben Nelson Regional Airport.