ExpressJet began to offer non-stop service to under its own name yesterday to New Orleans and Raleigh-Durham. This is the first time that non-stop service has been available to the Crescent City since Hurricane Katrina two years ago.

It also alleviates the need for researchers in the Triangle or from UAB among others to have to change planes in Atlanta, or so says a post on CheapFlights.com from earlier today. The company has been flying under its own name since April 2.

The company will continue operating flights for Continental Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The initial launch has focused on flights in California and the Southeastern United States, though service is offered to 24 destinations. ExpressJet upgraded in-flight entertainment on their Embraer ERJ-145s with more than 100 channels of free XM(R) satellite radio, complimentary snacks with full service meal options on longer flights, and redesigned, memory foam leather seating.

Locally, our airport authority announced during today’s city council meeting that they had received approximately $15 million in the form of a grant to assist in completing the buyout program for the homes and properties near the aiport. They also announced a tentative date of July 5 for a dedication ceremony for the expansion of the runway. According to executive director Al Denson, the runway expansion will allow the airport to handle Boeing 747-400 aircraft.