"The financial pressures in the industry have prevailed. We have run out of time." So states the
Letter to Customers posted on Independence Air's website,
www.flyi.com.
Today the low-fare carrier which had filed for bankruptcy protection in November announced that its financial woes have forced it to cease operations effective Thursday, December 5, 2006. Despite widespread consumer support for its low fares, Independence Air only operated for a little over 18 months. The letter on their website concludes,
"Today is a sad day for Independence Air. Today is a sad day for our customers who have gotten used to tender loving service and paying less for air travel. We will miss serving you. Thank you for your vigorous support."
Saddest, of course, are probably all of those travelers with tickets for flights scheduled after this Thursday! However, according to
an article in the NY Times, the good news is that per a federal law passed in the wake of September 11th, all those folks will be somewhat provided for:
"Other U.S. airlines operating on the same routes as Independence Air are required to offer standby seats for $50 each way to passengers holding unrefunded tickets, according to a message posted on the Independence Air Web site."
A sad day for travelers. A sad day for the airline industry.
