Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Unity Township is seeing a surge of optimism as the first three Breeze Airways flights to Myrtle Beach have sold out. The service, which begins on Tuesday, Feb. 9, marks the airport’s first commercial carrier since Spirit Airlines ceased operations last May.
Hiring plans for former Spirit staff
Westmoreland County Airport Authority Executive Director Moe Haas said the airport intends to bring back a portion of the nearly two dozen employees who were let go after Spirit’s shutdown. “We’ll probably bring in a total of 14 altogether to start,” Haas explained. “We’ll have to work some extra people back, and that’ll be part‑time for now. We would employ local people that would be the airport employees.”
These rehiring efforts are aimed at restoring jobs for local residents and ensuring the airport has the personnel needed to support the new airline’s operations. Haas emphasized that the airport is eager to fill positions quickly, noting that many community members have already expressed interest in returning to work at the facility.
Staffing needs for Breeze Airways
Since Breeze Airways was announced as the new commercial carrier last month, airport officials have a clearer picture of the staffing structure required. “Below the wing, they require four people,” Haas said, referring to the ground‑crew roles that handle aircraft servicing. “Above the wing, they require three people. Before, Spirit had required seven people above and five below. Ticketing people are above the wing, and below the wing are the people that service the aircraft itself.”
Of the 14 workers slated to return for the inaugural Myrtle Beach flight, none will initially be assigned to ticket‑counter duties. Haas indicated that ticketing staff will be added once the airline’s operations are fully underway.
Community response and future outlook
The rapid sell‑out of the first Breeze flights signals strong demand for air travel out of Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. “It shows that there’s a need and there’s a want for people to fly out of Arnold Palmer Airport,” Haas said. “Everybody’s been itching to get back flying out of Arnold Palmer. We can’t wait for them to come back.”
In addition to hiring local workers, the airport expects the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to resume full operations soon, further enhancing the travel experience for passengers.
How to apply
Residents interested in employment opportunities at the airport are encouraged to contact the airport directly at (724) 539‑8100 or email [email protected]. The airport hopes the new Breeze service will not only boost travel options but also revitalize the local job market.
About Arnold Palmer Regional Airport
Located in Unity Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Arnold Palmer Regional Airport serves the greater Pittsburgh area and has been a vital transportation hub for the region. The introduction of Breeze Airways represents the airport’s first commercial airline service in over a year, promising renewed connectivity and economic activity for the community.
Original reporting: WTAE (Hearst) – local — read the source article.
