Airlines planning services to Orlando could benefit from over $1 million a year in incentives after the airport board voted to offer a package of financial perks for new routes.
The program of incentives for new passenger and cargo traffic could cost as much as $4 million a year and will start when the new budget kicks in in October.
A number of airlines are "champing at the bit" to serve Orlando International, according to Vicki Jaramillo, who markets Orlando to the airline industry.
The move is in part a response to rival airports Tampa and Miami which both offer financial incentives.
Tampa waives landing fees and rent for up to two years for new long-haul international routes and Miami funds marketing campaigns and no landing fees for a year for new airlines, according to aviation consultant Bob Hazel who has been advising the Orlando airport board.
Cutting some operating expenses "can provide an edge," said Hazel
Orlando proposes giving 100% rebates on landing fees after one year of service.
For long haul carriers, the airport also will also contribute up to $750,000 in marketing costs during the first year.
Orlando International Chairman Frank Kruppenbacher admits the lack of incentives in the past had hurt efforts to sign up more airline business.
