September 18, 2011 - On Wednesday US Airways operated its 200th Honor Flight, transporting veterans to visit the World War II memorial and other sites in Washington, D.C. The flight took 101 veterans from Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina to Washington National Airport.  

US Airways has partnered with Honor Flight since 2006. The organization provides World War II veterans the opportunity free of charge to see the memorial that was erected in their honor.   

Chairman and CEO Doug Parker said, "Many of the veterans who have taken the trip told us that without the program they might not have had a chance to visit the memorial.

"This is our way to say 'thank you' for their courageous actions and the US Airways family is proud to participate in this special and rewarding program." More than 75,000 World War II veterans from 33 states have taken an Honor Flight since its beginning in 2005.

Honor Flight Network co-founder Jeff Miller said, "US Airways has been a fantastic partner since the first Honor Flight in Sept. 2006. Without their partnership, and that of other airlines, many veterans would not have access to the memorial erected in their honor."  

US Airways employees at Washington National provide a festive welcome upon the veterans' arrival in D.C. Each flight was welcomed with a water cannon salute and live music from the National Symphony welcomed veterans as they deplane into the decorated gate area.  

US Airways considers it a privilege to assist those who have, and continue, to serve our country through military service. The airline and its employees demonstrate this commitment by offering special rates to military personnel traveling on an officially excused absence and to discharged personnel within seven days of discharge. Special rates are also applicable for military dependents.

Waiving bag fees for active U.S. military with ID on orders and dependents traveling with them (bags 1 through four, up to 100 pounds); active U.S. military on personal travel have first and second checked bag fees waived. Recognizing active military and veterans during the week of Veterans Day through Sweet Delights Take Flight program. Each year in the airline's hubs and focus cities, the US Airways employee volunteer corps, the Do Crew, delivers sweets to patients in veterans' hospitals in appreciation for their distinguished service to our country.  

Serving as a significant supporting sponsor of the Veterans Medical Leadership Council in Phoenix, which provides immediate financial assistance to veterans who receive medical care at the Phoenix VA Hospital through the "Returning Warrior Fund." Serving as the presenting sponsor of the Carolinas Freedom Foundation Breakfast and Salute to Veterans Parade in Charlotte.