Low-Cost Airline PEOPLExpress Takes Off Again After 27 Years

When low-cost airline PEOPLExpress landed on the commercial airline industry scene in 1981, it attracted attention for its new business model of low fares and few frills. But expansions doomed the carrier, which was eventually acquired by Continental Airlines in 1987.

But this week, PEOPLExpress returned to the skies. While it’s a totally new carrier -- the owner is Vision Airlines, which is not affiliated with the original company -- its mission is the same: To provide affordable domestic air service.

Daily service began Monday between Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport in Virginia to three cities: Boston; Newark, New Jersey; and Pittsburgh. Later this summer the company will add routes to two Florida cities, West Palm Beach and St. Petersburg, plus Atlanta and New Orleans.

The airline has an initial fleet of three 737-400 planes, each with 150 seats. Fares will start at $76 one way, and customers can pay extra for any luggage, checked or carry-on, advance seat assignments and refreshments. Tickets are available at flypex.com.

“Air travel had become an unpleasant, difficult and costly experience for many travelers, and in response to that need the new PEOPLExpress was born with a name that left an indelible mark on aviation history,” said airline executive Jeff Erickson.