Finkenauer Continues to Press American Airlines to Reconsider Dubuque Service Cuts

September 8, 2020
Press Release

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (IA-01) sent a letter on Tuesday to American Airlines leadership urging the company to reconsider its announced service cuts to the Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ).

"Taxpayers stepped up to aid the airline industry when it needed it most,” Congresswoman Finkenauer wrote. “I hope that American Airlines will remember that assistance as it begins to target communities and the lasting impact that suspending air service will have on airports and regional business partners."

"With that, I ask that you consider all possible alternatives to suspending service at DBQ. There are other solutions that would maintain air service and mutually beneficial relationship between American Airlines and the greater Dubuque community.” Finkenauer wrote.

In the letter, Finkenauer notes that:

  • The rate of passengers taking flights from Dubuque Regional Airport is above the national average;
  • DBQ has had a steady increase in passengers since April, despite the COVID-19 pandemic; and
  • The CARES Act provided the company funds to pay employees in order to ensure service to small and medium sized markets like Dubuque, and Finkenauer is ready to work with bipartisan colleagues to extend the program as needed through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finkenauer has remained in contact with Dubuque’s local leaders since the company made its service cut announcement.

In a letter to Finkenauer, Dubuque Mayor Roy Buol wrote, “We desperately need air connectivity for a growing, thriving economy in our region of the Midwest."

Tuesday’s letter continues Finkenauer’s dialogue with American Airlines, and her search for a solution that does not involve complete service cuts in Dubuque. On Thursday, September 3rd, Finkenauer spoke directly with company leadership, urging them to reconsider the decision.

If American Airlines follows through on its announced plan, service to and from Dubuque Regional Airport will be suspended on October 7th, 2020.