Allegiant Airlines launched nonstop service from Fargo to Orlando, Fla., on Friday by giving 10 round-trip tickets to Make-A-Wish of North Dakota.
The flight addition marks the sixth nonstop destination from Fargo's Hector International Airport, said airport Executive Director Shawn Dobberstein.
"Our community and surrounding region is excited to gain nonstop service to Orlando," said Dobberstein, noting that Hector has set monthly boarding records each month since February.
"We expect to set an all-time boarding record at Hector this year," he said.
With the national and international economy in trouble, Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker said it's exciting to see Fargo and North Dakota continue to survive and add service.
ADVERTISEMENT
"Without air service, many of our businesses would suffer," he said.
Allegiant asked the Airport Authority to choose a beneficiary for its gift of tickets.
"After thinking who could most benefit, Make-A-Wish was the decision for us," Dobberstein said.
The gift was a great surprise, said Sharon Mazaheri, president and chief executive officer of Make-A-Wish North Dakota.
"Eighty percent of our wishes are travel related, and 70 percent of those go to Orlando," she said.
Readers can reach Forum Business Editor Craig McEwen at (701) 241-5502
