AREA OFFICIALS JOIN BLUE GRASS AIRPORT IN PROMOTING REGION AS TRAVEL DESTINATION

Lexington, KY — On June 27, approximately 15 leaders from central Kentucky will travel to the Lone Star State to promote tourism and economic development in the Bluegrass region. This trip will promote the non-stop service American Eagle began between Dallas and Lexington in Spring 2005 and will serve as a catalyst to promote the region as a premiere leisure and convention travel destination.

"These direct flights from Dallas open the door to tremendous potential for tourism and business opportunities," said Michael Gobb, executive director at Blue Grass Airport. "As a group, we can promote what makes Lexington a truly unique place to visit. From horses, history and bourbon to stunning natural beauty and wildlife, the Bluegrass region of Kentucky has something for everyone."

A highlight of the joint sales promotion will be an evening event at Delaney Vineyards & Winery in Grapevine, Texas.  More than 100 travel agents, group tour leaders, travel writers and meeting/convention planners from the Dallas/Ft. Worth area will learn first-hand what makes central Kentucky such a special place.

"This trip will not only assist in increasing passenger volume on inbound flights to Lexington, it also complements the efforts of regional tourism and economic development organizations," added Gobb.

Representatives from the Lexington Convention & Visitor's Bureau, Kentucky Department of Tourism, Commerce Lexington, Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government and Richmond Chamber of Commerce will accompany officials from Blue Grass Airport.

This trip is the latest in a series of destination marketing ventures spearheaded by Blue Grass Airport. In June 2004, the airport traveled to Washington D.C. promoting its non-stop service to the citizens of Northern Virginia and the DC area.