Sen. Henry Takes Airlines Economic Incentive Plan to Full Senate

State Senator Brad Henry announced he'll be taking a package of tax incentives for a Tulsa-based airline to the full Senate as early as next Monday. That's after winning approval from the Senate Economic Development Committee on Thursday. House Bill 2315 would give Great Plains Airlines $3 million in tax credits for a three year period, enabling the airline to lease four more airplanes. That would help Great Plains increase existing flights as well as add additional destinations.

"Oklahoma needs airlines based here that can offer direct flights to major cities. That's something we must have to attract major corporations and to keep others from leaving. Offering tax incentives now is an investment in our economic future," explained Henry, co-author of the measure.

Great Plains currently offers nonstop flights between Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Nashville, Colorado Springs and Albuquerque. The tax credits would enable them to increase flights to those cities, and help them expand to other cities as well.

"The company's long-term goals include direct flights to Los Angeles, New York and Washington D.C. Having direct flights to these coastal business cities would certainly enhance our ability to attract and keep major corporations here in Oklahoma," said Senator Henry, D-Shawnee. "Although the company is based in Tulsa, ultimately, it's not just going to benefit northeastern Oklahoma; it's going to be an economic boost to the entire state."

Henry said he wants to bring the measure to a vote when the Senate reconvenes on Monday at 1:30 p.m. The HB 2315 has already been approved by the House of Representatives.