MSP logs consecutive 100% first-flight days

November 21, 2011

The Minneapolis/St. Paul airport team achieved two back-to-back 100% first-flight days during the weekend, a first for the MSP operation. On Friday and Saturday MSP had 51 consecutive first flights that departed on time. Accomplishing a single day of 100% first flights is very difficult, and back-to-back days, for a hub the size of MSP, is very rare, said Bill Lentsch, s.v.p.-Minnesota Operations. “Achieving back-to-back 100% first-flight days is a tremendous accomplishment,” Bill said. “This doesn’t happen without excellent teamwork and commitment from all departments and suppliers who support the MSP operation. Congratulations to all of them for a job well done!” During the weekend, MSP also faced a 91% booked load factor on Friday and an 82% load factor on Saturday. Other challenges included a late Boeing 767 from the hangar, with 250 passengers and 198 bags to load in less than 40 minutes, and deicing staff being reassigned from their gate units as snow began to fall at the airport Saturday. “In spite of these challenges, each department of the MSP team came together with a focused determination to achieve this perfect performance,” said Richard Benz, manager-MSP control tower. “Although seemingly a daily occurrence, it is truly remarkable to see so many of our team become so enthusiastic and motivated to provide this outstanding service to our customers. The radios were lighting up across the airport between departments coordinating the necessary actions to overcome each hurdle as it developed. It’s gratifying to witness the level of pride our employees have in their station and this airline.” via Delta News Network No infringement intended