Just ask Cub fans: there’s something magical about having the home field advantage. That’s certain to come in to play April 3 when Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) hosts a prestigious air service development conference with as many as 20 airlines and 50 airports represented. The three-day conference provides opportunities for industry executives to explore mutually beneficial air service opportunities.
“This is an incredible opportunity to showcase our community to airlines seeking Florida destinations,” said MLB’s Executive Director Greg Donovan, AAE. “Melbourne, Florida’s playing field covers the big three bases necessary for tourism route success: beaches, cruises and theme parks. Add to that our thousands of airside employees in the aircraft manufacturing and DOD contractors, and it’s no doubt that MLB hits the home run for airlines looking for consistent, non-seasonal profit potential.”
The region plans to capitalize on this rare opportunity to simultaneously host dozens of airlines, said Eric Garvey, executive director of the Space Coast Office of Tourism. Airline representatives will sample the warm, tropical ocean breezes, fresh seafood, and world-renowned attractions. Visit Florida is also supporting the event. Host resort Crowne Plaza Oceanfront Melbourne’s Sales Manager Kim Santiago said that attendees will work and relax in its deluxe accommodations, and that the resort will be providing excursions and amenities that spouses and families will especially appreciate.
Orlando Melbourne International Airport competed against other airports nationwide to land the 2017 Spring Conference presented by Sixel Consulting. According to Sixel President Mark Sixel, “Orlando Melbourne International Airport made a compelling case. The conference is scheduled to immediately follow MLB’s fantastic airshow featuring the USAF Thunderbirds, and families can extend their visit easily with cruises from Port Canaveral. As other corporations are discovering, it’s the best of all worlds to hold your conference there and we expect it to significantly boost our registrations. There is considerable momentum in Melbourne, and we are eager to seize that momentum.”
