Air Service Links Ltr DOT USA
City Manager's Office
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, Iowa 52001.4864
(563) 589--4110 phone
(563) 589.4149 fax
ctymgr@cityofdubuque.mg
~~~
September 29, 2004
Honorable Norman Y. Mineta
Secretary
Department of Transportation
400 7th Street, SW.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Re: 2005/2006 U.S.-China Air Services Case and Designations
(OST -2004-19077)
Dear Mr. Secretary.
Increasing air service links between the United States and international markets is vital
to the economic development of small and mid-sized communities like Dubuque. I
applaud the recent successful negotiations between the U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) and China. The landmark agreement is a significant step in the
right direction to open the increasingly important U.S.-China aviation market.
Given the competitive landscape, I am writing you to express my strong endorsement
for American Airlines' proposal to operate service to Shanghai, China from Chicago's
O'Hare International Airport. It is my belief that American's service proposal would
provide better opportunities to increase economic and cultural links to China. Over 60%
of the nation's population resides east of the Mississippi River, which makes additional
service to Asia from Chicago an important factor in how DOT allocates the new
opportunities. Another important element to consider in the case is that American
service into China from Chicago will inject competition into the market, which will further
benefit consumers.
International air service, particularly service to growing and underserved markets like
China, is a critical element our community's ongoing efforts to promote trade, stimulate
job growth and increase tourism and cultural ties. I urge you to grant American Airlines'
request for the carrier designation and associated frequencies to operate a new
competitive service in the U.S.-China market.
..---
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Honorable Norman Y. Mineta
September 29, 2004
Page 2
Thank you for your time and consideration of this very important issue to the people of
Dubuque.
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Michael C. Van Milligen
City Manager
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cc: Andy Perry, Airport Manager
Mayor Terry Duggan
Dubuque City Council