Quick Hits

Passengers on long Midwest Airlines flights will soon be able to rent handheld video entertainment units that play movies, television programs and music videos. The Oak Creek airline said the digEplayer units will be available in April and will rent for $10.

Air Wisconsin to aid US Airways

Air Wisconsin's decision to help rescue bankrupt US Airways with a $125 million investment should strengthen the Appleton air carrier and could restore some flights here, said Dane County Regional Airport Director Brad Livingston. The investment could help revive US Airways' service to Madison, Livingston said, and it guarantees Air Wisconsin a partner if its relationship as regional carrier for United Airlines fizzles.

Flying as United Express, Air Wisconsin runs about 165 flights a week in and out of Madison, with flights to Chicago and Denver. It has nearly 25 percent of the Dane County airport's market share.

Northwest plans D.C. flights

Northwest Airlines plans to begin daily nonstop service between Madison and Washington, D.C., on June 9. The flights, operated by Northwest's regional partner Pinnacle Airlines using 44- or 50-passenger regional jets, will be Northwest's first service in recent years between Madison and a nonhub city.

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