American Eagle, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, today announced daily round-trip service between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK) in Manhattan, Kan., which will begin Nov. 18. The new service will be operated with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets.

“We’re delighted to introduce service from Manhattan to American’s second largest hub in Chicago,” said Gary Foss, Vice President – Planning and Marketing, AA Regional Network. “Customers throughout northeast Kansas can now make a day trip to conduct business in Chicago or enjoy convenient connections to destinations throughout American’s vast global network.”

“I am very pleased and excited with the announcement of nonstop jet service between Chicago O’Hare and Manhattan,” said Mayor Bruce Snead. “The decision to add service to Chicago builds on the hugely successful Dallas/Fort Worth service and is a testament to the strong partnership among the communities of the Flint Hills region, American Eagle Airlines, and the State of Kansas. Chicago service will open new doors for economic opportunity and improved quality of life for Manhattan and the surrounding communities.”

“We are pleased with the success of the jet service at the Manhattan Regional Airport,” said Kansas Secretary of Transportation Deb Miller. “The community has demonstrated an understanding of the need and value of this service and has done an excellent job of utilizing the service. The airline’s willingness to expand the service to Chicago is a tribute to the community’s efforts.”

Manhattan is the home of Kansas State University, Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division, and also the future site of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility for Kansas Heartland BioAgro Consortium.