As chairman of the Bridgeport Airport Commission, Mayor Joe Ganim has the power to help direct the future of the Bridgeport-Sikorsky Memorial Airport, located in Stratford.

"Today I'm proposing that we get commercial air carriers to service what could be a very busy hub for air travelers -- and we certainly have enough of them here in Connecticut's biggest city," Ganim told News 12.

"We shouldn't have to drive to New York or New Haven or Hartford to catch a flight to D.C. or Los Angeles or anywhere you want to go. The time is now to bring commercial airline service to the Greater Bridgeport Area," he said.

There have been many attempts over the years to accomplish that goal, but they've always been thwarted by financial hurdles and strong opposition among Stratford residents. Those residents who opposed the plan say it is due to concerns about noise.

"I'm aware of all that -- but I think it's time for everybody to reassess the situation and chart a course into an exciting future for folks who live in this area and don't want the continued hassle of beginning a trip by taking a trip," Ganim said.