“EAS provides an efficient form of transportation for those traveling to and from Montana’s rural areas,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “In many of these areas, major airlines are unable to provide service due to the costs.  Fortunately, EAS travel is a reliable resource to replace that missing link.  This bill will ensure their service can continue in the future.”

            The House has yet to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization bill which includes funding eligibility requirements for EAS airports.  Today’s legislation, sponsored by Senator John Thune (R-SD), would extend the previous requirements through 2008 ensuring these airports continue to be funded until a new bill is passed.

Montana has eight EAS points, seven of which – Glasgow, Glendive, Havre, Lewistown, Miles City, Sidney, and Wolf Point – are served by Big Sky airlines, with its code-sharing agreements and a connecting hub in Billings.  Sky West airlines provides seasonal service to Montana’s eighth EAS point, West Yellowstone.

“It’s critical we pass the FAA bill as soon as possible,” said Rehberg.  “However, this legislation ensures Montana’s EAS airports will stay open for business.”

Earlier this year, the House Appropriations Committee included an amendment, sponsored by Rehberg, which would increase the funding level of EAS to $110 million in turn triggering an additional $15 million in funding previously authorized by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005.