DELTA LEAVING SMALLER MARKETS

SIOUXLAND---Delta Airlines has announced that they will be dropping money-losing flights in 24 small markets across the country, including all service in Mason City and Fort Dodge.

They'll also be asking for Essential Air Service funding to continue to provide service in Sioux City and Waterloo.

Delta officials in a news release say that flights in the markets on average depart with 52-percent of the seats filled, with some as low as 12 percent.

Delta flights in Mason City have a 46-percent load factor, with Fort Dodge flights having a 39-percent load factor.

Delta had previously announced its intent to reduce capacity this fall by four percent and retire 140 Saab turbo-prop aircraft.

Iowa Senator Tom Harkin says in a written statement that Delta's decision will have a negative effect on Mason City and Fort Dodge, with the airline's request seeking financial assistance to continue service to Sioux City and Waterloo creating some risk for service in those communities as well.