Airline flop leads to diversion of flights to Cedar Rapids

A new venture that would help some Iowa travel plans has been put on hold.

Late last year, Dubuque airport officials announced they would add a nonstop flight to Orlando, Florida in 2023. They are scheduled twice a week. The airport has partnered with Avélo Airlines for this new non-stop service.

One-way fares from Dubuque to Orlando International Airport reportedly start at $59.

Sounds too good to be true, right?

Well, maybe it is!

Unsplash – Iwan Shimko

Unsplash – Iwan Shimko

On January 7, 2023, officials from the Dubuque Regional Airport announced that they were unable to obtain the required TSA approval for its airport security plan in time for DBQ’s inaugural flights to Orlando.

The first flight scheduled for Wednesday January 11 was canceled a week in advance. Passengers who were supposed to be on those first flights have been compensated for their problems according to Avelo Airlines officials.

“The safety of our customers, our employees and the aviation system remains our top priority. Despite our best efforts to obtain approvals for our DBQ airport security program, additional time is required,” said DBQ Airport Manager Todd Dalsing.

“We are working with the TSA to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. This delay was not Avelo’s fault, and we apologize for the inconvenience and frustration this situation has created for Avelo customers,” confirms Dalsing.

After taking a moment to regroup, there is now officially a plan in motion for passengers who have booked these specific flights at this time.

Beginning Saturday, January 14, Avelo Airlines will move these Dubuque flights to the eastern Iowa airport in Cedar Rapids. This is an interim solution until the airport can obtain the necessary certification from the TSA.

Airline officials have confirmed that they will offer passengers who have booked these flights a $100 travel credit on future flights and the ability to reschedule their flights at no additional cost.

For more information, be sure to check out AveloAir.com/DBQ-INFO.

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