www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Funny how a few years back ( 2009 - 2010), one could purchase flights from IAH, (Houston) to SJO for $350.00, or cheaper on random deals, and flights to POP, ( Puerto Plata, Dominica Republic), were $800.00 or more.

I realize fuel prices factor heavily into these fares,..or do they?...Alot of you that have read my prior post know that both of my brothers worked for Continental Airlines, now United. 20 plus years. Both are private pilots, and work in the maintenance dept. Older brother is a maintenance supervisor.

They tell me airlines have computer setups that would rival the defense department, on how to figure fare for different segments, flights, etc.

Now to the point. I can now fly cheaper to POP than I can SJO. Will Southwest Airlines knock the fares down to a competitive level to south america when they come online with new south american flights? I sure hope so. I would rather fly out of Hobby airport, just off 45 south than deal with IAH, off 59 in Houston.....

Hope you guys in the know take time to respond,...thanks in advance.....

_________________
"If you dont think women are explosive,....drop one."

I have not heard about Southworst flying to Central America. Please enlighten me as I could not find anything on the web about it.

Houston city council approves Southwest Airlines' international plans
Published On: May 30 2012 07:08:08 AM CDT
Updated On: May 30 2012 07:50:44 PM CDT
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May 30, 2012: Houston will have two international airports after a vote by Houston City Council on Southwest Airlines' plans to fly internationally. Phil Archer and Amy Davis report.
HOUSTON -
Houston City Council voted Wednesday in favor of Southwest Airlines' plans to fly internationally from Hobby Airport.

Read letter from United to its employees
Southwest Airlines plans to expand Houston's smaller airport so it can fly to Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and South America. The airline said it will pay $100 million for a five-gate expansion, customs facility and new employees at Hobby so the airline can run international flights as early as 2015.

More than 150 supporters and opponents crowded into council chambers for the vote. The plan passed 16 to 1. Councilman Jerry Davis, from District B, was the sole vote against it.

Southwest Airlines CEO Gary Kelly said last week that the airline will cover all costs related to the expansion, and will design and build the five new gates and customs facility to the city's specifications.

"It will be financed with no city debt and no passenger facility charges will be used to reimburse (Southwest)," Houston Mayor Annise Parker said on May 23. "Southwest Airlines has agreed to pay for all of the expenses associated with building this expansion. That's it."

Other airlines will be able to use one of the new gates and the customs facility. Southwest will have preferential use at four of the new gates.

SWA plans to use new 737 aircraft that are more efficient and quieter than older models to eliminate a traffic increase impact on the surrounding neighborhood.

"This is a big win for Houston and the traveling public," said Parker. "Competition will lead to jobs, lower fares and a positive economic impact for the city."

The city estimated that the expansion will add 18,000 jobs and $1.6 billion per year to the local economy.

Southwest has promised low airfare, too.

"We're the low-fare specialist, the low-fare leader in America," Kelly said. "For the first time, you'll be able to have low fares from Houston to Mexico, Caribbean, Central America and South America."

United Airlines, operating out of Bush Intercontinental Airport, said the deal could have negative affects on the city, including layoffs and reduced service to certain routes at IAH because of the increased competition.

United claims that opening up Hobby for international flights will drain $300 million for Houston's economy, jeopardize service and cost 3,700 jobs, many of those being United employees.

Parker said United has a long-term commitment to make Houston its largest hub, and she expects the airline to live up to it.


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_________________
"If you dont think women are explosive,....drop one."

Wow, thanks for posting the info I still was not able to find anything about it. I only wish they were able to get things rolling sooner but it certainly sounds like they are commited to getting it done.

Estimated completion is Sept 2015



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