On November 1st, Quincy Regional Airport welcomed the inaugural flight of Contour Airlines, connecting Quincy to Chicago O'Hare International Airport. The new route features two types of regional jets, offering 12 round-trip flights weekly, with each jet accommodating 30 passengers, reduced from previous models.
City officials, including Mayor Linda Moore, expressed optimism about the service, noting enhancements such as onboard lavatories and steward services to improve passenger comfort. Moore emphasized the importance of providing reliable and comfortable travel options for residents.
Partnership and Community Response
The partnership between Quincy and Contour Airlines was finalized after months of effort, initially starting under a former mayor's administration. Airport director Bill Lantz shared his excitement, describing the moment he learned of the deal's completion as goosebump-inducing.
“I actually got goosebumps up and down my arms I was so excited about it,” said Lantz. “Now that we’re actually here, we made our transition, Contour’s first flight was today, I can’t say enough good things about it.”
The inaugural flight included a tour of O’Hare, a ceremonial gift exchange, and a complimentary lunch, marking a significant milestone for the community.
Contour Airlines replaced Southern Airways as the airport’s service provider. Travelers can now book flights online for direct or connecting trips to Chicago, expanding accessibility and regional connectivity for Quincy residents.
