March 3, 2003

Mesa's first passenger flight left Sunday Feb. 23, from Williams Gateway Airport for Laughlin (NV) signaling a new era in passenger service and economic development. The doors opened at 6:00 p.m. for the 8:30 p.m. flight.

Mesa Mayor Keno Hawker will be among the 130 passengers on the inaugural flight that will return Tuesday. Harrah's Laughlin Casino and Hotel is sponsoring the popular charters. The first flight and a second scheduled for March 31 are sold out.

In addition to the new passenger service, the airport also opened a U.S. Customs Office this week to serve the international air cargo industry. The combination of air cargo and passenger services will spur job development in the Williams Gateway Area.

"Transportation, vacant land, skilled workforce, demographics — all elements are in place for a burst of new business activity," Hawker said. "Williams Gateway will become the East Valley's new center for jobs."

The flight will be the first to leave from the 22,000 square-foot passenger terminal. Free airport parking is available. Harrah's Laughlin is offering the charter flight as part of a vacation package that includes airfare and room accommodations.

The city of Mesa's vision for the Williams Gateway Area is to become Arizona's premier center for aviation, technology, employment and education. Passenger service has been a goal since the airport was converted from a U.S. Air Force base in 1993.