Death threats, controversy surround quest for Naples commercial air service

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NAPLES, Fla. – Controversy is surrounding the quest to bring commercial service to the Naples Airport.

Airport Authority Commissioner, Dick Evans says Airport Director, Ted Soliday never told them they were in negotiations to bring Elite Airways to Naples.

“I’m frustrated, it was a process unlike any I’ve ever experienced in my business career,” said Evans.

On Wednesday, critics brought their concerns to city council. But, the plan to bring Elite Airways is still moving forward.

The negotiation controversy comes right after Elite Airways President, John Pearsall, told Soliday he’s received death threats for trying to bring the airline to Naples.

Airport Authority Chairman, James Rideoutte says its not stopping anything and stands behind Soliday. He tells WINK News if the Airport Authority had waited too long, Elite Airways could have withdrawn its offer.

“This is the first time in eight years that we had anyone want to come in,” said Rideoutte.

If approved, Elite Airways would fly to and from Newark, New Jersey two days a week.

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