Sweeney Lauds Spirit Airlines International Service Expansion out of Atlantic City

Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney today hailed the announcement from Spirit Airlines that it will offer flights out of Atlantic City to Cancun, Mexico and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Senator joined representatives from Spirit, members from the South Jersey Transportation Authority, and other elected officials at the Atlantic City International Airport for today’s announcement.

“I applaud all of the efforts made in this decision to expand Spirit Airlines’ current services out of the Atlantic City International Airport,” said Senator Steve Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “The Atlantic City Airport is a convenient alternative to Philadelphia or Newark for South Jersey residents and this expansion will be a great addition to elevate the airport as a transformative force in our regional economy. I look forward to seeing the ways in which this airport will continue to grow in the coming years.”

The flights to the new destinations will begin at the end of October, with service to Cancun, Mexico starting October 29^th, followed by service to San Juan, Puerto Rico beginning on October 31^st.

“The expansion of Spirit’s services will allow the Atlantic City Airport to become a real competitor in the international aviation industry,” said Senator Beach (D-Burlington/Camden), Chair of the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee, and in that capacity has long prioritized the revitalization of Atlantic City. “South Jersey residents looking to travel to Cancun or San Juan will now have Atlantic City as a closer option, making traveling easier and less stressful for families. I would like to thank everyone involved in making this vision a reality and I wish Spirit Airlines the best in this new endeavor.”

“New routes like the ones we’re announcing today from Atlantic City are only possible because of the support we receive from the great people of South Jersey,” said Matt Klein, Spirit Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “It’s exciting to repay that support by giving our guests nonstop access to more great destinations. We know what a positive impact increased flying has on the communities we serve, and at Spirit we’re glad to be able to do our part to make it happen.”

Last year, the Atlantic City International Airport received an $11 million grant for runway expansion that was the fourth-largest grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Additionally, the National Aviation Research and Technology Park received a $3 million grant for the construction of a second building, which will add 165 high-tech jobs to the region.