After Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Ky) gained a $1 million grant, Fort Lauderdale-based Air Azul now connects Somerset, Ky, via its first commercial air service, to Nashville. The route is the only commercial route the charter operator flies. The service from The Lake Cumberland Regional Airport is provided with a Fairchild Metro III.
The flights, launched December 27, are only offered on weekdays. The flight resulted from more than 15 years work to obtain air service to the community, according to the Associated Press. Air Azul currently has scheduled flights Friday through Monday, with limited service planned until the spring.
The new carrier is led by Co-founder Skip Roberts, a 30-year industry veteran, according to its website. He has experience selling travel from wholesale to retail, operating a fleet of aircraft on corporate programs up to 1 million passengers annually. His partner is Trevor Sadler who has been involved in airline startups in the U.S. and abroad. Founded 13 years ago by Michael Lochmueller who has extensive experience with both Part 135 and 121 carriers. Also in the executive suite is Lynn Lochmueller who has been instrumental, said the company in establishing the company’s Caribbean operations. She is the company’s administrator.