Increase In Flight Schedule Causes Increase In Protection

Instead of 18.5 hours of aircraft protection at Ft. Smith Regional Airport, there will have to be at least 19 provided by the airport.  This is due to American Airlines making their flight schedule a half-hour earlier. 

Pro-Tec Fire Services has been in a contract with the airport for almost one year providing the protection.  The Ft. Smith Airport Commission said a revised labor contract with the company for 24-hour protection would come at a cost of $300,000.  This expense would not be compensated for.  The existing contract costs roughly $250,000 per year.

John Parker, Airport Director, said at this time they can't justify going to 24 hours.  In a memo to the Commissioners, Parker wrote that the potential for canceled flights due to published aircraft rescue and firefighting protection, still exists.

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