SRQ attracts another airline

United Airlines is returning to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport effective Nov. 4.

The Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority announced in a press release today that United will initiate daily service between Sarasota and Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport President Fred Piccolo said he was “thrilled” United was returning to the airport.

“This is the second new service announcement in two weeks and demonstrates that many carriers recognize that the Sarasota-Bradenton area is a strong market for our airline partners,” said Piccolo, in a news release.

The news comes less than two months after Air Tran made an abrupt announcement to cease its services to the airport, which upset airport officials who were taken by surprise by the air carrier’s decision.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].