Today, Judge Peter Agnes of Middlesex Superior Court denied a group of Hanscom area activists their request for a summary judgement aimed at halting Shuttle America's flights from Hanscom Field in Bedford. The judge confirmed that Massport officials had conducted a full and appropriate state process when Shuttle America initiated their popular flights from Hanscom in September 1999. The judge stated that, "Massport provides HFAC [Hanscom Field Advisory Committee] with ample opportunity to exercise its responsibilities" This decision follows an earlier ruling when Judge Herman Smith denied the activists' request for an injunction, also finding that Massport complied with the relevant state statutes.
Massport continues to seek and support alternatives to Logan International Airport as it builds an efficient and responsive regional transportation system. Over the last year, Massport officials have worked with the FAA and the directors of New England's regional airports to jointly promote an aviation system that meets the needs of the traveling public. In addition, on January 15, 2000, Massport took over operation of Worcester Regional Airport and has succeeded in bringing two new airlines to that underutilized facility.