The $2 million subsidy will allow Mesaba Airlines to move forward with plans for three daily flights from Columbia to Memphis.

That is a change from previous airlines, which offered service to and from St. Louis or Kansas City.

Mesaba is part of Northwest Airlines, which has a major hub in Memphis and connections nationwide and around the world.

Other major airlines like Delta, American and Continental also serve the Memphis Airport.

"The other airlines that submitted proposals had service going to Kansas City as we currently do. Columbia City Council thought it would be best if we tried something different and went to a hub airport," said Columbia Regional Airport Manager Kathy Frerking.

Frerking said Mesaba will shake things up for Columbia Regional Airport and the Columbia Public Works spokeswoman, Jill Stedem, said the city is pleased with the choice of Mesaba. The City Council named the carrier it's top choice three weeks ago. According to a proposal from Mesaba Airlines, flights will start within three to four months.