'We're all very excited:' Midwest Express initially flying to Grand Rapids, Omaha and Cincinnati

MILWAUKEE — Midwest Express announced on Wednesday, Aug. 28 the initial flight destinations and final steps for flights to commence from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.

Midwest Express

"We're all very excited and thrilled to see the strides that Midwest Express is making on its return here to Milwaukee, where Midwest Express belongs," said Brian Dranzik, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport director.

The initial routes will be flying to Grand Rapids, Michigan, Omaha, Nebraska, and Cincinnati, Ohio.

"It is a good looking airplane -- and we're excited to show it off. We're excited to start operating," said Greg Aretakis, President of Midwest Express. "It's a big day for Milwaukee. It's a big day for the traveling public. "

Midwest Express

Earlier this month, airline officials announced they had signed an agreement with Portland, Maine-based Elite Airways LLC to begin non-stop flight service from Midwest Express’ home base at Mitchell. Midwest Express will establish its own reservations system, customer service operations and in-flight amenities to support the new flights. All public-facing customer interaction, including the branding on the planes, will be Midwest Express.

Midwest Express

Midwest Express

There were freshly-baked chocolate chip cookies for sampling on Wednesday -- and yes, they will be available to passengers when flights commence.

"That's a pretty good cookie," said Derek Divito, traveler. "I like it. Very chocolaty. Chocolate chip cookies are the best. If they let me on the plane I'm sure I'd probably get a couple of them."

Midwest Express

Midwest Express

The Midwest Express-branded aircraft displayed at the event was a 50-seat Bombardier CRJ 200 jet, one of a number of jet aircraft models flown by Elite Airways.

Midwest Express

Midwest Express Bombardier CRJ 200