The Press-Republican has enthusiastically supported the efforts of Clinton County officials in developing Plattsburgh International Airport into a venue that will accommodate the travel needs of the region and boost development opportunities throughout the North Country by providing crucial first-class air service.

The growth of the airport from cargo and commuter dispatcher to successful charter and limited-destination hub portends great things for the region.

As we continue to try to find ways to encourage prosperity at the airport, we're pleasantly surprised to receive an e-mail from Harold Weil of Montreal, whom we've never met but who has perhaps conceived a better plan than anyone to drum up business. His e-mail speaks for itself:

"Hello, I am a Montrealer who is writing to many different airlines with the suggestion that they add regular air service between Plattsburgh and New York City. I know that Montrealers already go through Burlington, Vt., but, for Montrealers, Plattsburgh is at least a half-hour closer than Burlington. For Clinton County residents, even though Burlington looks close by on the map, the lake makes the trip lengthy and/or costly. I don't know if anyone is working on this project in the Plattsburgh area.

"I welcome any ideas or support you can give me.

"Here is an example of the kind of e-mail letter I am sending to various airlines.

"Dear —-, I am a U.S. citizen originally from New York City, and I am now living in Montreal. I travel often between Montreal and NYC. Frequently I have driven all the way to Burlington, Vt., to fly with Jetblue or other U.S. carriers.

"As I am sure you are already well aware, the obvious attraction is cost. Plane tickets from Burlington to NYC can cost as little as 20 to 30 percent of an equivalent Montreal-New York ticket, especially on short notice. Much of the cost difference is government fees (as much as $100 less in the U.S. compared to Canada) creating a natural opportunity for low-cost air service out of Plattsburgh.

"With Plattsburgh marketing itself quite accurately as Montreal's 'U.S. suburb' and with its new international airport, many of my friends (who also use Burlington) have asked me why no one is offering the Plattsburgh-to-New York service. The immediate benefits to Montrealers include the shorter drive to Plattsburgh and free parking. I am sure with Plattsburgh's growing industrial base it would also be attractive for Clinton County residents.

"Key target markets in Montreal are leisure travelers going to NYC or continuing on to other destinations; people in Montreal with family in N.Y. visiting or attending family events (e.g. weddings). Even business owners travel to U.S. airports to save cost. I know at least one businessman who will drive as far as Albany so that he can fly Southwest Airlines because of the huge cost differentials.

"I would love to discuss the market potential of the opportunity with you further.

"Thank you very much."

Harold Weil

His points are irrefutable. We hope his message lands on powerful eyes and ears.