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All efforts are under way to ensure the Williamsport Regional Airport will continue to have an airline serving the local area this fall.
The airport is losing its American Airlines flights at the end of September, but officials are working to find an alternative passenger service by that time.
Airport Executive Director Richard Howell told the Sun-Gazette that conversations have been held with several air carriers for Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C.
"We are looking for someone to take us to Dulles," he said.
The success in finding an airline, he said, hinges on finding local businesses with the need to make trips to that area.
Surveys were sent out in the spring to find out what businesses are interested.
"We are cautiously optimistic," Howell said. "We have several leads."
Howell said it's unlikely one of the possible airlines will be SkyWest Airlines, which was considered a potential candidate for local passenger service at one time.
For now, airport officials are hoping to soon learn what specific companies are interested in flights to the D.C. area.
American Airlines will continue with its once-a-day flights, Monday through Friday, but only through September.
"American is definitely pulling out," Howell said.
Interesting enough, he noted, people are taking advantage of the air service with American Airlines flights both leaving and arriving at the airport, usually filling up most of their seats.
"I would like them (American Airlines) to reconsider," he said. "Those load factors are pretty amazing."