WASHINGTON -- The Love Field debate reached a new level when the
Transportation Department ruled that new-entrant Legend Airlines
and other carriers can fly from the Dallas airport to any U.S.
point, as long as their aircraft capacity doesn't exceed 56
passengers.
In a 63-page order, the DOT said a 1997 change in federal law to
open up Love Field service takes precedence over a 1968 agreement
between Dallas and Fort Worth to restrict service to the four
states contiguous to Texas.
Legend Airlines applauded the decision and decried the "legal
bullying tactics" that it said prevented it from starting its
planned interstate service. But Fort Worth officials immediately
said they will file an appeal. American, which has a stake in
preserving DFW's dominance, may join them.
Meanwhile, Legend could be ready to fly by the time the legal
dispute is settled. The airline received a final DOT fitness
certificate, is working on getting its FAA certificate and hopes to
complete construction of its Love Field terminal by April.