Maine’s congressional delegation is demanding answers from the US Postal Service over nearly $350,000 in unpaid bills owed to Penobscot Island Air, a regional carrier serving island communities.
The carrier resumed postal flights to Vinalhaven, North Haven and Matinicus islands after USPS agreed to start paying overdue invoices following a one-day service stoppage.
Lawmakers, including Senator Susan Collins, sent an April 23 letter to Postmaster General David Steiner urging USPS to resolve the outstanding payments and explain how the delays occurred.
They said Penobscot Island Air and similar contractors are essential to rural communities in Maine, delivering mail and packages by air and sea.
Penobscot Island Air operates four single-engine Cessna 206 and 207 turboprop aircraft. The company initially said USPS owed $388,000, but later clarified the amount was $349,000.
The unpaid balance represents around 20% of the carrier’s annual revenue. The company said it had been paid for only one delivery in 2026, with the last payment received on March 13.
USPS agreed to pay around 25% of the outstanding balance, but the timing for the remaining amount remains unclear.
Penobscot Island Air said stopping service was a last resort after repeated meetings with USPS financial and regional officials failed to resolve the issue.
The carrier also delivers parcels for FedEx and UPS.
USPS said transportation officials are working with the contractor to finalize a prompt resolution and that steps have been taken to ensure future payments are made on time.
