Where was the support for Eastwind Airlines?
"What a difference 10 years can make!" is the thought racing through my mind as I absorb the gleeful coverage of the Skybus Airlines announcement.
As I reflect upon the experience of having been a pilot for Greensboro's own home-team Eastwind Airlines — right up until our last flight on Sept. 7, 1999 — I can only wish that we could have enjoyed the largesse of these huge state and local incentives.
Also, just 10 short years ago, if we would have had the advantage of the Triad media gushing forth about our service, we would have made a big difference in Greensboro air travel.
Yes, we had some managerial problems, but all our Eastwind employees worked so hard to make affordable air travel a reality for the Triad. Yet, local and state government — plus the media — did little to help us, even seeming to actively work against us. Mike Easley, working at the time as attorney general (and anticipating his gubernatorial run), even targeted us to help make a name for himself.
Godspeed, Skybus. I wish you much good fortune. You'll need it when the community decides to turn against you.
James Furr
Landis
Comments (2)
To report abuse of the comment feature on this site, please use the feedback form at the bottom of any page.
Mr. Furr,
Your feelings about Greensboro and it's treatment of Eastwind is understandable, except for the fact Eastwind was more of an "opportunity" carrier vs. discount airline.
Hope you feel good about living in Landis, the land of Corriher's Sausage and Livermush! I wish they sold Corriher's up here, as their liver mush is superior to Neese's liver pudding. I'd have to say the same about their sausage too. When Bi-Lo was in Greensboro, I was able to get them to stock Corriher's...anyway, good stuff!
Posted on November 4, 2007 9:08 AM
Hi Liberal Conservative;
In a sense, I agree with your assessment of the differences between Eastwind and Skybus.
However, Eastwind only lingered at the "opportunity carrier" level due to being underfunded, and as bad as I hate to admit it, poorly marketed. There was plans to grow EW into the current size and operational level of Skybus, and larger. But with the lack of support, especially of the local leadership, Eastwind simply floundered for nearly 5 years, then finally died. With just a little help, we could have offered the same level of service that Skybus is now here for.
The Triad area media -especially WGHP TV 8 in High Point- constantly dug for any shred of negativity that could be shouted about any facet of Eastwind. They did more to drive a stake into the heart of EW than any other group I can imagine.
As for pride in living in the Town of Landis, this is certainly something I enjoy. So much pride, in fact, that I am elected to serve the citizens of our town on our city council. We have a great little town here, and I work to help lead it into even better things for the future.
The products of the Frank Corriher concern are a source of civic pride. As you mentioned, the quality over Neese products is superior. However, marketing appears to have traditionally been their limitation, as you note.
Your search for these products is a subject I'd like to discuss off line with you. Please email me at centrolina@ctc.net when able.
Posted on November 7, 2007 9:14 AM