Routes Americas to kick off in Indy
INDIANAPOLIS (Inside INdiana Business) — A major aviation conference will begin Tuesday in Indianapolis. Routes Americas 2020, which runs through Thursday, is expected to bring some 800 airlines, airports and tourism organization representatives to central Indiana.
The conference brings officials together to discuss new and existing air services throughout North and South America. When it was first announced that Indy would host the 2020 event, organizers estimated it would generate $2 million in short-term local economic impact and $40 million in long-term economic impact.
Mario Rodriguez, executive director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority, says the airport is looking to showcase the city to the international representatives attending.
“IND and hundreds of volunteers will be working overtime and in overdrive to bring Hoosier Hospitality to the world this week and help facilitate what is essentially high-stakes speed dating with airlines for route connectivity,” said Rodriguez. “IND is a $1.7 billion airline market, and we have the attractions, the facilities, and the workforce to attract the best opportunities for Indiana. And this is our week to make that case.”
The conference will begin at the J.W. Marriott in downtown Indianapolis. Governor Eric Holcomb and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett will be in attendance during the conference to further tout opportunities in the city and state.
The Indianapolis International Airport says during the conference, nearly 25 Hoosier university students pursuing aviation degrees will take part in the Routes Americas legacy program. The students will have the opportunity to attend conference programs, hear industry speakers and network with aviation professionals and executives.
Inside INdiana Business will have more from the Routes Americas conference in Tuesday’s INside Edge e-newsletter.