Allegiant Airlines, which offers destination flight service in Bridgeport to Orlando and Myrtle Beach at the North Central West Virginia Airport, came under fire, along with the Federal Aviation Administration, after “60 Minutes” Sunday reported the airline was more likely that multiple other airlines so suffer from major in-flight mechanical failures.

 

The report questioned the FAA’s handling and oversight of Allegiant. The report said Allegiant had more than 100 mechanical issues from a period running from January 2016 to October 2017. The FAA has said it addressed each incident individually and met the agency’s satisfaction. Some members of Congress are asking for an investigation into the matter.

 

It is possible more could result from the story.

 

On Tuesday, NCWV Airport Director Rick Rock posted this statement on the airport’s Facebook page.

 

“We are proud to offer the north central region choices in air travel. Allegiant has always been a great partner to our community and we look forward to continuing that relationship. Any questions regarding the recent media attention should be directed to Allegiant’s corporate communications team (mediarelations@allegiantair.com or 702-800-2020) who will be able to provide an official statement.

 

Please see the following letter from the Federal Aviation Administration to CBS’s 60 Minutes:

 

CLICK HERE

 

Personally, I have traveled with Allegiant multiple times, for business and for leisure with my family. I intend to do so again as soon as possible.

 

In aviation, safety must always come first. That is the number one priority for our Airport team; always has been and always will be.

 

Allegiant has carried over 200,000 passengers to and from our airport since the inception of the service on November 14, 2013. I certainly would not promote any service or product to my family, friends or community if there was a doubt in my mind about their safety.

 

We appreciate your support of our airport and our efforts to bring you reliable and safe transportation options.

 

Kindest regards,

 

Richard B. Rock

Airport Director

 

For a follow-up report from CBS, the network that airs 60 Minutes, click HERE. It is a report from CBS This Morning that aired Tuesday.