US AIRWAYS TO REDUCE CAPACITY BY 23 PERCENT

US Airways has said that it will reduce capacity by 23 percent, as measured by available seat miles, from the level of service provided prior to the events of September 11.

"The tragic events of September 11 have had a dramatic effect on the nation’s aviation industry, including US Airways. As a result of reduced passenger demand as well as the ongoing requirements of new security procedures, US Airways has no choice but to reduce the number of its daily flights. Regrettably, this reduction in service will lead to a smaller US Airways family as personnel reductions follow," said US Airways President and CEO Rakesh Gangwal.

"The entire U.S. aviation system is in jeopardy, and without decisive actions the future of the system, along with its impact on the nation’s economy, is imperiled. In addition to measures we are taking independently, we will continue to work closely with the Administration and Congress on actions to ensure the future of the framework of the nation’s air transportation system," said US Airways Chairman Stephen M. Wolf.

Reductions in the US Airways workforce are expected to number approximately 11,000.

US Airways Express carriers Allegheny Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, Potomac Air and PSA Airlines – all wholly owned by US Airways – will announce their own service and personnel reductions shortly.

Prior to the events of September 11, the US Airways system operated about 4,500 flights, serving about 200,000 passengers, daily. US Airways currently employs 46,500 people throughout its system, serving 204 communities in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean region and Mexico.