November 12, 2009

Last night the decision was made to change the name of the new international airport located near Panama City Beach, FL. Apparently the previous name North West Florida Panama City International Airport did not set very well with the Mayor of Panama City who made the following comments in a letter to the board.

It was with regret that I learned the name that was selected for the newest airport in  Florida.  I sincerely hope that you will reconsider and choose a name that is truly regional in nature and scope.

This airport is a milestone for all of this area in many ways: the new industry that will grow, the increase in the tourism business, the first time this area including the surrounding counties has worked together to make the airport and the future to happen, and the overall increase in the quality of life for our residents.

I think we can safely say that there are so many other names including those listed in the top five selections under consideration that more represent the nature of what is happening here.  What a wonderful opportunity we have and it is a shame not to take advantage of it. Northwest Florida has already been taken by another airport and Panama City denotes such a narrow scope (one city of many).

Once again I would request that you reconsider, think regional, and do what is best for Bay County and our regional partners.

Shortly thereafter, the Bay County Tourist Development Council assembled a resolution and submitted formerly to the Airport Authority Board their suggestion for a new name:

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, unanimously, by the Bay County Tourist Development Council and Board of Directors of the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc. that the Airport Authority is respectfully requested to reconsider the name of the new airport, and again consider naming the airport the “Northwest Florida International Airport.”

Well after deliberation a new name was finally selected that would attempt to meet the needs of all involved parties. The new name that was decided upon yesterday is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.


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November 4, 2009

Southwest Airlines coming to Panama City!

After much speculation over the last few months, it is confirmed that Southwest Airlines will indeed be offering flights into the new Northwest Florida Panama City International Airport.

There were many who doubted the rumor based on the financial numbers involved. It  appeared that the proposition of opening a new hub in this market at this point in time might not be a smart move for the large airline.

It appears that St. Joe is helping Southwest Airlines with a $26 Million commitment over 2 years. Agreeing to pay the airline up to $14 Million in the first year and up to $12 million in the second year to help mitigate the risk associated with the new venture. If Southwest should prove profitable in the first 2 years they would in turn share part of the profits with St. Joe.

There are more details to the agreement than I have time for now but I will be sharing more details in the future.

The bottom line is St. Joe and Southwest Airlines are now equally yoked with a powerful incentive to make this venture a success. I am sure that the marketing departments for both companies will be working overtime to drive visitors to Panama City Beach and the rest of the Emerald Coast.

This should improve occupancy rates in panama city vacation rentals and help to spur the local economy with additional tourist dollars flowing into the market. iTrip will continue to keep travelers informed of upcoming news and evens as they relate to Panama City Condos.

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Welcome to our Blog at Panama City Beach Vacations

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Stay tuned for updates!

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