For years the full service airline terminal at Somerset's airport has been empty. But officials say that's about to change.
“I think this is the best thing that's happened to Somerset in a long while,” says Mayor Eddie Girdler.
Florida Based Air Azul is soon to offer a charter service..and by spring..full fledged commercial commuter service to Nashville.
“We plan by April 1, 2 flights a day, which will have TSA (security), at that point, just like regular airline service,” said Girdler.
The round trip flights will cost about $70.
Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital could become one of the airline's largest customers. C-E-O Jeff Seraphine says the growing hospital is interviewing for new positions almost daily.
“We're bringing in 2 or 3 doctors a week and we're recruiting from all over the country,” said Serphine.
Nashville will be the primary hub, but Mayor Girdler hopes other feeder destinations will be added.
“We’ve got to develop strong relationships with Lexington, Nashville, Cincinnati, maybe even Louisville, to make this work,” said Girdler.
The target date for the first charter flight is December 27th, with four round trip flights offered each week.