BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Chick-fil-A will open yet another location in Western New York as Delaware North looks to revamp food options at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
The new Chick-fil-A will replace the Checkers in the food court. Delaware North also plans to replace Villa Pizza with an "upgraded pizza brand". The decision was made after they say the current food options were "underperforming".
In the Northeast area of the airport, where Which Wich, BUF Bar, and Matties currently are, a Marketplace Concept will take over.
It's the latest change to the airport that's expected to make the travel experience more enjoyable, according to a statement issued by Delaware North:
Delaware North is excited to be working with the NFTA on the food and beverage renovation at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. We are putting together a compelling dining lineup that will prove once again why JD Powers ranked the Buffalo airport number one in customer satisfaction.
The Chick-fil-A is expected to be up and running by the Fall of this year.
These dining changes do not appear to affect the Anchor Bar and Tim Hortons that are currently available.
Not everyone is in favor of the restaurant. Democratic Assemblyman Sean Ryan issued a statement Thursday night calling the decision "disappointing," as Chick-fil-A has been accused of anti-LGBT behavior for years.
"I don't believe the leadership of the NFTA intends to help spread hate and discrimination," said Ryan, "but allowing a corporation like Chick-fil-A to do business at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport will help to fund continued divisive anti-LGBTQ rhetoric."
He's now asking the NFTA to reverse its decision.
Friday morning, the NFTA issued the following response:
First and foremost, the NFTA is an organization that prides itself on its strong commitment to diversity and inclusion and stand firmly against any form of discrimination We have the upmost respect for Assemblyman Ryan and consider him a great partner and friend to us. We will reach out to him and discuss his concerns.
