News Releases

For Immediate Release
Thursday, December 20, 2007
 
Contact:

Susan M. Stevens, A. A. E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000


Holiday Travel Advisory

Charleston, S. C. - The busy holiday travel season is upon us. To ensure that your air travel is enjoyable - please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your departure.

ALLOW TIME TO:

    • Park your car
    • Check your baggage
    • Board your flight without being rushed

Parking Rates

    • Surface lot: $8/day
    • Deck: $12/day
    • Valet: $13/day (holiday special)
      until Jan. 13, 2008

Remote Parking Lot- Holiday Special

    • $8/day
    • Park 4 days or more and receive
      1 day free (offer ends
      Jan. 10, 2008)
    • Credit Card In / Credit Card Out (only)
    • Free Shuttle to/from terminal / 4AM until 1AM

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For Immediate Release
  

Tuesday, November 27, 2007
  
Contact: Susan M. Stevens, A.A.E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000


Airport Roadway Construction

Charleston, S. C. - Effective immediately and until Friday, December 21, 2007 - traffic on International Blvd. is restricted to one lane in and one lane out from the intersection of Michaux Parkway to the Charleston International Airport Terminal Building.

Construction hours: 7am until 5pm

Please plan accordingly.

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For Immediate Release

October 15, 2007
 
Contact:

Susan M. Stevens, A. A. E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000

Airport Construction

Charleston, S. C. - Construction of the rain cover canopy and walkways at the Charleston International Airport Terminal will begin tonight, Monday, October 15, 2007, at 8:00pm until 4:00am and will continue for the next nine (9) months. The inside four (4) lanes of traffic closest to the terminal building will be closed during the night for the first phase of the project. All vehicular traffic will be routed to the outside four lanes. Please plan accordingly.

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For Immediate Release
October 12, 2007
 
Contact: Susan M. Stevens, A. A. E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000

Roadway Construction

Charleston, S. C. - Beginning Sunday, October 14 through Friday, October 19, 2007 Michaux Parkway and the intersection of International Boulevard / Michaux Parkway will be restricted to one lane from 8:00pm to 5:00am due to paving work being performed in these areas. Please plan accordingly.

Please note that roadway construction will be ongoing for the next four (4) months and we plan to notify the public of any closings and / or detours.

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For Immediate Release
September 20, 2007
 
Contact: Susan M. Stevens, A. A. E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000

Aviation Authority Officers Reelected

Charleston, S. C. - The Charleston County Aviation Authority reelected officers at its annual meeting on September 20, 2007.

David G. Jennings Chairman
George Patton Waters Vice Chairman
The Rev. Edward A. McClain, Jr. Secretary
Thomas G. Botchie Treasurer
Edie E. Carson Assistant Treasurer

The Airport Authority owns and operates three (3) airports in the Charleston area: Charleston International, Charleston Executive Airport (Johns Island), and Mount Pleasant Regional Airport.

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For Immediate Release
   
June 11, 2007
  
Contact: Becky Beaman
Manager of Public Affairs
843-767-7000

Airport Installs New Artwork

Charleston, S. C. - The Charleston County Aviation Authority installed two new murals at the Charleston International Airport Terminal Building today, Monday, June 11, 2007. "For over twenty years it has been an honor and a pleasure to work with the Charleston County School District to recognize some of the most talented young artists in the Charleston area by exhibiting their work in the atrium of the airport terminal building," said David G. Jennings, chairman of the Charleston County Aviation Authority.

This year the winners are Erica Diaz and Ida Maria Otonkorpi, from West Ashley High School. Each young lady received a check from the Airport Authority for $200 for their work. The four other art students that were selected by the artists to assist them are Lizzi Paggi and Stephanie Diaz assisted Ms. Diaz and Ashley Combs and Lucy Easterby assisted Ms. Otonkorpi. Each assistant received a check from the Airport Authority for $100. Mrs. Chris Donna is the very talented art teacher who encouraged her students to participate in the contest this year.

"On behalf of the Charleston County School District, I would like to say ‘Thank you’ to the West Ashley High students that won the contest this year," said Dr. Maria Goodloe-Johnson, superintendent of the Charleston County School District. "I am so proud of your work. We are so fortunate to have such talented students and teachers in our public school system," she said.

The art program is sponsored jointly by the Charleston County School District and the Charleston County Aviation Authority. Each year students enrolled in art classes within the county school system are invited by the Authority to submit a drawing relative to "Life in the Lowcountry". Two students are then selected to enlarge their drawings to an 8 x 12 foot mural which will be displayed in the terminal for one year.

In addition to Charleston International Airport, the Charleston County Aviation Authority also owns two general aviation airports: Charleston Executive Airport (Johns Island) and the Mount Pleasant Regional Airport.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2007
Media Contacts: Tad Hutcheson
tad.hutcheson@airtran.com
678.254.7442

Judy Graham-Weaver
judy.graham-weaver@airtran.com
678.254.7448

AirTran Airways Celebrates Inaugural Flight To Historic Charleston

- Airline Drives Down Prices With Arrival to One of the Highest-fare Markets in the Country -

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 24, 2007) AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), launched flight service at Charleston International Airport today in Charleston, S.C. On hand to celebrate the new service was Chairman of the Charleston County Aviation Authority, David Jennings, as well as representatives from the Medical University of South Carolina's Children's Hospital (MUSC). The airline presented the MUSC Children’s Hospital with a donation of $10,000 as part of the company’s enthusiasm and commitment to serving the Charleston community.

AirTran Airways announced earlier this year that it would add new service to Charleston after receiving an overwhelming response to an online survey the company launched late last year called, "Where do you want low fares next?" As consumers logged on and cast their votes for the airline’s next destination, it was clear that there was an overwhelming demand for low-fare, high-quality airline service in Charleston, making it the 55th destination in AirTran Airways’ rapidly expanding route network.

"AirTran Airways is pleased to bring much-needed low-fare air service to the Lowcountry," said Tad Hutcheson, vice president of marketing and sales for AirTran Airways. "In addition to driving down fares, AirTran Airways offers access to high-value amenities, including an award-winning frequent flier program, Business Class on every flight and free XM Satellite Radio at every seat."

"It is an honor for me to welcome AirTran Airways to the Charleston area," said David G. Jennings, chairman of the Charleston County Aviation Authority. "AirTran is an excellent airline and will be an asset to our community in many ways. Their competitive airfares will benefit our business and leisure travelers."

AirTran Airways will offer four daily roundtrip flights between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport by June 7. Travelers departing from Charleston can connect to 52 cities nationwide via Atlanta.

Effective today, AirTran Airways offers the following nonstop flight options between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport:

Nonstop Service Between Charleston and Atlanta

From

To

Flight

Departs

Arrives

Frequency

Atlanta

Charleston

447

2:30 p.m.

3:40 p.m.

Daily

Atlanta

Charleston

882

10:50 p.m.

11:59 p.m.

Daily

Charleston*

Atlanta

883

6:10 a.m.

7:25 a.m.

Daily

Charleston

Atlanta

275

4:10 p.m.

5:25 p.m.

Daily

*Service begins May 25.

AirTran Airways will offer the following nonstop flight options between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, effective June 7:

Nonstop Service Between Charleston and Atlanta

From

To

Flight

Departs

Arrives

Frequency

Atlanta

Charleston

884

9:10 a.m.

10:20 a.m.

Daily

Atlanta

Charleston

171

5:40 p.m.

6:50 p.m.

Daily

Charleston

Atlanta

654

10:50 a.m.

12:05 p.m.

Daily

Charleston

Atlanta

881

7:20 p.m.

8:35 p.m.

Daily

Following is a sample of fares* AirTran Airways will offer for its new flights to/from Charleston. Fares listed are one way, available daily and are valid in either direction:

Destination

Sample 14-day advance purchase

Sample Walk-up Flight

Sample Business Class

Atlanta

$64

$149

$189

AirTran Airways, a Fortune 1000 company and one of America's largest low-fare airlines with more than 8,600 friendly, professional Crew Members, operates more than 700 daily flights to 56 destinations. The airline's hub is at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where it is the second largest carrier. AirTran Airways’ aircraft features the fuel-efficient Boeing 737-700 and 717-200 to create America's youngest all-Boeing fleet. The airline is also the first carrier to install XM Satellite

Radio on a commercial aircraft and the only airline with Business Class and XM Satellite Radio on every flight. For reservations or more information, visit airtran.com (America Online Keyword: AirTran).

###


For Immediate Release
  
April 26, 2007
  
For Further Information: Becky Beaman
Manager of Public Affairs
843-767-7000

Travel Advisory

Charleston, S. C. - Due to increased passenger traffic and flights at Charleston International Airport the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is advising departing passengers to arrive at the airport two (2) hours prior to departure to allow sufficient time to check in, clear security, and board your aircraft.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2007
Media Contacts: Tad Hutcheson
tadhutcheson@airtran.com
678.254.7442
  
Judy Graham-Weaver
judy.graham-weaver@airtran.com
678.254.7448
   

  

  

Historic Charleston, S.C. Is AirTran Airways’ Newest Destination
Airline Chooses City as Its Next Stop
After an Overwhelming Response to Traveler Survey

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 22, 2007) – AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), today announced plans to begin service to Charleston, S.C. Effective May 24, 2007, the fast-growing low-fare carrier will offer two round-trip nonstop flights between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with the addition of two more round-trip flights on June 7, 2007. With these new flights, AirTran Airways will bring much-needed low fare service to one of the highest-fare markets in the country. The route will be served by AirTran Airways’ popular Boeing 717-200 aircraft, which seats 117 passengers (12 Business Class and 105 in coach).

The airline decided to add new service to Charleston after an overwhelming response to its recent online survey asking consumers, "Where do you want low fares next?" A few months ago, AirTran Airways dedicated a portion of its Web site to the survey, where consumers could log on and vote for the airline’s next destination. While the airline announced Phoenix, Ariz., as the number one pick from that survey, Charleston was clearly among the top cities in the race to be the next stop on the low-cost carrier’s route map. Charleston is AirTran Airways’ 55th destination.

"AirTran Airways is committed to offering quality service based on the feedback of our customers," said Tad Hutcheson, vice president of marketing and sales for AirTran Airways. "When we saw an overwhelming request for service to Charleston, we felt it was a pretty easy decision to make it one of our next new destinations. We are excited to bring AirTran Airways’ service to travelers here in Charleston, offering them access to low fares and high-value amenities including Business Class on every flight and free XM Satellite Radio at every seat, as well as the youngest all-Boeing fleet in America."

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Add One
AirTran Airways Announces Service to Charleston International Airport

"We are pleased that AirTran Airways has seen the tremendous opportunity of adding Charleston, S.C., to the growing network of communities that it serves," said Bobby Harrell, R-S.C., speaker of the house.  "AirTran Airways will be a vital component of the region’s future tourism and economic development programs."

David Jennings, Chairman of the Charleston County Aviation Authority added, "Charleston is a first class community, and AirTran is a first class airline. We are delighted to be working together."

The following nonstop flights between Charleston and Atlanta will begin May 24, 2007, unless otherwise indicated:

Nonstop Service Between Charleston and Atlanta

From

To

Flight

Departs

Arrives

Frequency

Atlanta

Charleston

886

2:30 p.m.

3:40 p.m.

Daily

Atlanta

Charleston

882

10:50 p.m.

11:59 p.m.

Daily

Charleston*

Atlanta

883

6:10 a.m.

7:25 a.m.

Daily

Charleston

Atlanta

887

4:10 p.m.

5:25 p.m.

Daily

*Service begins May 25.

The following nonstop flights between Charleston and Atlanta will be available beginning June 7, unless otherwise indicated:

Nonstop Service Between Charleston and Atlanta

From

To

Flight

Departs

Arrives

Frequency

Atlanta

Charleston

884

9:10 a.m.

10:20 a.m.

Daily

Atlanta

Charleston

880

5:25 p.m.

6:35 p.m.

Daily

Charleston

Atlanta

885

10:50 a.m.

12:05 p.m.

Daily

Charleston

Atlanta

881

7:10 p.m.

8:25 p.m.

Daily

Following is a sample of fares* AirTran Airways will offer for its new flights to/from Charleston. Travel on introductory fares must be booked by March 15, 2007, for travel through June 13, 2007. Fares listed are one way, available daily and are valid in either direction:

Destination

Introductory

Fare

Lowest Walk-up

Lowest Business Class

Atlanta

$59

$179

$219

- more -

Add Two
AirTran Airways Announces Service to Charleston International Airport

AirTran Airways, a Fortune 1000 company and one of America's largest low-fare airlines with more than 8,000 friendly, professional Crew Members, operates more than 700 daily flights to 55 destinations. The airline's hub is at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where it is the second largest carrier. AirTran Airways’ aircraft features the fuel-efficient Boeing 737-700 and 717-200 to create America's youngest all-Boeing fleet. The airline is also the first carrier to install XM Satellite Radio on a commercial aircraft and the only airline with Business Class and XM Satellite Radio on every flight. For reservations or more information, visit airtran.com (America Online Keyword: AirTran).

* All fares are one-way. All fares are non-refundable, and a $60 fee per person applies to any change made after purchase plus any applicable increase in airfare. Reservations may be obtained or changed through an AirTran Airways Telephone Reservations Center for an additional $5 per person. Introductory sale fares must be purchased by March 15, 2007. Travel must be completed by June 13, 2007. Fares, routes, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Fares do not include per-segment tax of $3.40. A segment is defined as one takeoff and one landing. The September 11th security fee of up to $10 is not included. Airport Passenger Facility Charges of up to $18 are not included.

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For immediate release:
        
Thursday, September 14, 2006
          
Contact:

            
Sam Hoerter, A. A. E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000

Airport Authority Selects New Airport Director

Charleston, S. C. - The Charleston County Aviation Authority selected their new director of airports today.

Susan M. Stevens, A. A. E., a 20-year veteran of the Aviation Authority, was selected after a nation wide search to fill the position being vacated by retiring director of airports, Sam Hoerter, A. A. E.

Ms. Stevens graduated magna cum laude from James Madison University with a degree in Business Administration. Ms. Stevens joined the Authority in 1987 as manager of finance and administration. She was later promoted to director of finance and administration, and then to deputy director of airports.

Ms. Stevens is an accredited member of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), a former member of its board of directors, and past president of the Southeast Chapter of AAAE. She is a member of the North Charleston Rotary Club, Redeemer Lutheran Church and various other community organizations.

The Authority owns, operates, and maintains Charleston International Airport, Charleston Executive Airport (Johns Island), and Mount Pleasant Regional Airport.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tuesday, April 4, 2006
Contact: Sam Hoerter, A.A.E.
Director of Airports
843-767-7000

AMERICAN EAGLE BEGINS NONSTOP JET SERVICE BETWEEN
CHARLESTON AND DALLAS/FORT WORTH

Charleston, S. C. - "American Eagle, a subsidiary of American Airlines, has returned to Charleston International Airport offering two daily nonstop round-trip flights per day to Dallas/Fort Worth. The Authority and the community welcome this new service by American Eagle since it offers our passengers another major hub and airline to choose from when planning their travels - whether domestic or international. Passengers will now have another option when traveling to the west coast and beyond," said David G. Jennings, Chairman of the Charleston County Aviation Authority.

"This new service to Charleston will provide convenient access to one of this country’s most popular tourist destinations," said American Eagle President Peter Bowler. "It also provides Charleston residents with access to the DFW hub, with connections to more than 100 cities around the world," said Mr. Bowler.

Passengers will travel on a popular 50-seat Embraer 145 regional jet. Daily flights will depart Charleston at 7:47am and 2:45pm. Passengers flying American Eagle will also earn American’s AAdvantage Miles.


  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA RELEASE March 22, 2006

CHARLESTON COUNTY AVIATION AUTHORITY
5500 INTERNATIONAL BLVD. #101
CHARLESTON, SC 29418-6911

PASSENGER PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF CHANGES
CHARLESTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The completion of the new parking garage at the Charleston International Airport will result in changes to the way vehicles are allowed to approach the terminal building to drop-off or pick-up passengers. Beginning Monday, March 27, 2006 vehicle operators will no longer be allowed to wait or stand at the terminal's curb for an arriving passenger. These areas are now designated for active loading and unloading only. Visitors are permitted to pick-up and drop-off passengers with their luggage at the curbside. The active loading and unloading procedures are necessary to ensure the Aviation Authority remains in compliance with all applicable Federal security requirements as well as providing better access and convenience for departing and arriving passengers.

The new garage provides convenient parking close to the terminal building and cover during unfavorable weather conditions. The Authority offers free parking for the first thirty minutes in either the garage or surface lot. Valet parking services are provided by Republic Parking Systems for an established rate. The Aviation Authority has also added a cell phone waiting area as a parking option that is free of charge.

The following information is provided to assist with travel plans to the Charleston International Airport.

OPTIONS FOR DROPPING OFF / PICKING UP A PASSENGER AT THE AIRPORT

Curbside Check-in Remains Available:
        If you are dropping off a passenger for a scheduled departure from the Charleston International Airport, the convenience of curbside check-in remains available. Once a passenger is dropped off from the transporting vehicle, the vehicle must leave the terminal's curbside. No waiting, standing, or parking is permitted for vehicles at the terminal's front curb. Any vehicle that remains on the curb will be ticketed and/or towed immediately. If the passenger needs curbside assistance, please contact one of the Skycaps at the terminal curb to assist you.

To reach the surface lot or parking garage after a terminal drop off, follow the terminal loop road, staying to the left - it makes a circle around the parking garage and surface lot. Entrances to the public parking areas are located to the left as you approach the terminal building. The first entrance is for the surface lot and the second entrance is for the garage. The garage provides parking spaces that are closest to the terminal building. Access to the terminal from the surface parking lot is through the parking garage.

Public Parking:        The Aviation Authority offers the convenience of a surface lot and the parking garage. Entrances to the public parking areas are located on International Boulevard, to the left, as you approach the terminal building. The first entrance is to the surface parking lot and the second entrance leads you to the parking garage. Rates for public parking are as follows:

PARKING RATES AND INFORMATION
(Effective November 18, 2005)

Daily Parking

Surface Parking

 

0-30 minutes (1/2 hour)

Free

Each additional 1/2 hour or fraction thereof

$1.00

Daily maximum per 24 hours 

$8.00

Lost ticket fee (minimum charge per day)

$8.00

Deck

0-30 minutes (1/2 Hour)

Free

Each additional 1/2 hour or fraction thereof

$1.00

Daily maximum per 24 hours 

$12.00

Lost ticket fee (minimum charge per day)

$12.00

  
Valet Parking Available:        Valet parking services are available at the International Airport. Valet services are provided by Republic Parking Systems (843-552-6060) and are available each day of the week between the hours of 5:00am to 1:00am (or until the last flight arrives). The Valet queuing area is located on the outside lane on approach to the Terminal Building.

Terminal Baggage Claim Area:        The Terminal Baggage Claim area is designated as the immediate curbside pick-up area. Passengers arriving who are to be picked up in a private car should collect their luggage at baggage claim. Private cars are allowed to drive through and pick-up passengers for active loading only. Vehicle operators may not park, stand, or wait at the terminal curb for passengers to arrive or to collect their luggage. Any vehicles left unattended will be ticketed and/or towed immediately.

Cell Phone Waiting Area:        When a passenger is delayed for curbside pick-up or the driver has arrived early and is waiting for the passenger to arrive; a cell phone waiting area is conveniently located near the terminal. Drivers may use the designated cell phone waiting area on Terminal Loop Road while waiting for the arrival of a passenger. The waiting area is on the right as you drive away from the Terminal building. This is a temporary parking area, at no cost, for the purpose of waiting for a phone call from the passenger indicating they are ready to be picked up at curbside. When a cell phone call is received from the arriving passenger, arrange to meet them at the baggage claim curb area. It is helpful to wait until the passenger has collected their luggage before pulling up to the curb. There are no telephones or restrooms in the cell phone waiting area. For safety reasons, drivers must remain in their vehicles. Vehicles left unattended will be towed immediately.

Public Transportation:        Public transportation or taxi/limousine services are available at the International Airport. The local public transportation system (CARTA) is available and makes daily stops at the International Terminal near the baggage claim area. Taxi and limousine service from the airport may be arranged through the Ground Transportation Starter located outside Baggage Claim.

Click here to view the parking guide.

Rebekah Beaman
Manager of Public Affairs
(843) 767-7000


  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA RELEASE March 22, 2006

CHARLESTON COUNTY AVIATION AUTHORITY
5500 INTERNATIONAL BLVD. #101
CHARLESTON, SC 29418-6911

AIRPORT OPENS CELL PHONE WAITING AREA

A cell phone waiting area is open to the public at the Charleston International Airport. Persons who choose to wait in their vehicle until their passenger arrives can use this area free of charge. The cell phone waiting area is convenient to the airport and is a service provided by the Aviation Authority.

The cell phone waiting area provides a convenient temporary parking option when a passenger is delayed or the driver has arrived early. The waiting area is located on Terminal Loop Road to the right as you drive away from the terminal building. This is a temporary parking area, at no cost to the user, for the purpose of waiting for a phone call from an arriving passenger indicating they are ready to be picked up at curbside. It is helpful to know that arriving passengers should collect their luggage first then arrange for pick-up at the terminal's curb. There are no telephones or restroom facilities in the cell phone waiting area. Persons parking in this area must remain with their vehicle at all times and any vehicle left unattended will be towed immediately at the operator's expense.

Parking, standing, and waiting at the terminal's curb will not be permitted. The terminal's curb is to be utilized for active loading and unloading only in an effort to relieve congestion during arrival and departure periods.

Rebekah Beaman
Manager of Public Affairs
(843) 767-7000


Welcome to the Charleston International Airport. In order to ensure the Aviation Authority is in compliance with applicable Federal security requirements several parking options are available for your convenience and use. Please take a few moments to review the options available to you.

  • The terminal front curb is for active loading and unloading ONLY. No waiting, stopping or standing is permitted. Unattended vehicles will be ticketed and towed immediately.
  • Ample parking is available in the parking deck, which is close to the Terminal building. The surface parking lot immediately adjacent to the parking deck provides direct access to the Terminal building (see diagram).
  • Free public parking is provided for the first thirty minutes in the parking deck or surface lot.
  • A free cell phone waiting area is located near the terminal (see diagram).
  • Curbside check-in remains for departing passengers.
  • Valet parking services are provided through an Airport vendor.

Curbside parking is not allowed at Charleston International Airport. Stopping times at the curb for loading and unloading should be brief. Increased security measures require that vehicles in "No Parking" areas will be ticketed and may be towed. Passengers and luggage may be dropped-off at the curb by their driver. Arriving passengers may wait at the curb with their luggage for their driver to pick them up there. Drivers must not stop until their passengers and luggage arrive at the curb ready for pick-up.

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