New Kalamazoo-Florida flights begin

Avelo Airlines made history this week at Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport.

The Texas-based, no-frills airline welcomed its first Florida-to-Kalamazoo flight Wednesday afternoon. Less than three hours later, its first Orlando-bound flight from Kalamazoo departed.

Fanfare to greet the departing flight included a ceremonial water cannon salute led by the AZO Fire Department as the aircraft taxied into position for takeoff.

Beginning Nov. 11, Avelo will fly two round-trip routes weekly between the two cities, with Kalamazoo flights departing at 4:05 p.m. and 8:50 p.m. Mondays and Fridays. The non-stop flights complete one-way travel in less than three hours.

Avelo officials in July staged a press conference at the airport to announce the airline’s new service from Kalamazoo to Orlando.