Airline looks at Valley

The representative came to assess the growing Antelope Valley market and learn more for a report back to the airline's corporate office in Dallas, DiGiralamo said.

"We will continue to discuss, where appropriate, American Airlines operations. We will sit down with them one-on-one," DiGiralamo added.

According to DiGiralamo, airline representatives feel there is untapped market opportunity in the Antelope Valley, but will have to look at long-term costs and expenses of basing services at Palmdale Regional Airport.

Lt. Col. Peter "Pete" Drinkwater said he told the airline representative the Air Force could sell the carrier fuel at market value, and that the carrier could use some facilities available at Air Force Plant 42.

The American Airlines representative was given information on the large volume of government and aerospace contractor air travel originating in the Antelope Valley.

Palmdale Mayor Jim Ledford told the airline official about financial benefits of the enterprise zone, which could offer tax breaks for equipment purchases and jobcreation here.

While officials said they are optimistic about the meeting, Ledford said the visit is a preliminary step that will not necessarily mean more air service.

If the American Airlines' representative's report is well received by corporate officials, further study of potential Palmdale operations might take place, Ledford said.