Give welcome sign to airlines

The costs of some flights already are increasing at Charleston International Airport as a result of AirTran Airway's pending departure. The Charleston County Aviation Authority's attempts to lure another carrier could benefit residents, business travelers and tourists to the Lowcountry.

Hey, incentives worked for Boeing.

In hopes of attracting new carriers and retaining existing ones, the Aviation Authority has agreed to waive landing fees for new service and to provide new carriers up to $150,000 in start-up costs (kiosks, computers and terminal improvements). Another $10,000 can be spent to advertise new carrier services.

Earlier this year, local leaders discussed subsidies to keep AirTran from leaving Charleston but decided they were too expensive.

AirTran Airways will pull out of Charleston early in December.

Airline losses are forcing service cuts that incentives could mitigate. Other airports are using incentives, some much larger than Charleston's, to retain key service.

For example, Tallahassee, Leon County and the state of Florida agreed this year to cover up to $1.5 million in losses on Delta Connection flights from three Florida markets.

The Aviation Authority shouldn't offer more than is financially prudent, but modest incentives are worth the effort. Meanwhile, it needs to make sure carriers already serving Charleston -- USAirways, Delta, American, Continental, Northwest and United -- are treated fairly.

Those who enjoy the service to and from Charleston International Airport will find it even more pleasurable if new competition drives prices down.

Incentives are worth a try.