Contour Airlines Launches New Nonstop Service Between Pensacola and Cape Girardeau

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Pensacola International Airport added a new Midwest connection Wednesday when Contour Airlines launched its inaugural nonstop flight between Pensacola and Cape Girardeau Missouri.

The route was driven by demand from Cape Girardeau residents who wanted direct access to the Florida Panhandle without having to drive to St. Louis or other regional airports. Contour Vice President Andrew Chevalier says many people in the Cape Girardeau area either vacation in Pensacola or own homes here — making a direct connection a natural fit.

The inaugural flight came in nearly full in both directions — something Chevalier called virtually unheard of for a brand new route. The strong early demand suggests the market for the connection is real on both ends.

Contour operates 30-seat regional jets — CRJ-200s and Embraer 145 aircraft configured with extra legroom for a more comfortable passenger experience. The airline partners with American, United, Alaska, and JetBlue — meaning passengers can connect through Dallas-Fort Worth to destinations across the country and internationally, including as far as Tokyo.

For Pensacola travelers, Chevalier says Cape Girardeau is worth considering as a weekend destination — describing the river city's scenery as gorgeous and noting a casino conveniently located near the airport.

The new route also helps offset the recent loss of Spirit Airlines, which had operated Pensacola's Fort Lauderdale connection before its collapse. More information on Contour's Pensacola service is available at flycontour.com.