“The Science of a Successful Airport”: Denver International Airport Holds Fifth Annual “State of DIA” Luncheon

DENVER, CO — March 12, 2013 — Today, Denver International Airport (DIA), the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC) and the Metro Denver Aviation Coalition (MDAC) hosted the fifth-annual State of DIA luncheon at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

Kim Day, DIA’s Manager of Aviation, addressed the airport’s 2012 successes and the exciting developments coming in 2013 and beyond. Day highlighted new routes in 2012, including new service to three international destinations – Reykjavik, Mexico City and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Day said that 2013 will bring more excitement in terms of air service, with flights to Tokyo scheduled to begin later this spring by United. The airport also is working to secure service to Panama City, Panama, which provides unparalleled options for reaching destinations across the South American continent.

“Our region and state can support this service due to our dynamic economy and vibrant tourism offerings,” Day said of the new international destinations.

Day also addressed new concessions and other amenities coming to DIA this year, including Elway’s steakhouse and Udi’s Café and Bar, Dunkin’ Donuts, Tattered Cover and Xpress Spa, among others. DIA has also launched its Premium Value Program for our concessionaires, which rewards top performers with new leases and ensures that DIA will have dozens of additional opportunities for new and existing partners.

Day also noted DIA’s benefits from participation in the Federal Aviation Administration’s new NextGen program, which allows for continuous descent and ascent for inbound and outbound flights and, in the process, reduces fuel needs and associated costs. The South Terminal Redevelopment Program also is in full swing, with progress being made on both the RTD commuter rail line and accompanying Westin Hotel.

DIA’s commitment to strong relationships with its airlines, federal agencies and local jurisdictions was noted as well. When discussing DIA’s formula for success, Day explained that DIA is not an island.

“We are integrated with metro Denver, with the region, and with the state, said Day. “We pride ourselves on the positive relationships with our airlines, understand their needs—and then work to meet their needs within our overall model. We work hard to improve the entire experience for each and every one of the passengers who use DIA. And, we work hard with our concessionaires to make sure the airport provides a viable business environment.”

The presenting sponsor of the 2013 State of DIA luncheon is Mortensen/Hunt/Saunders Tri-Venture. Additional support is provided by the Metro Denver EDC and the Metro Denver Aviation Coalition. A copy of Day’s full remarks is available online at: http://business.flydenver.com/info/news/index.asp.

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. DEN is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating more than $36 billion for the region annually. For more information visit www.FlyDenver.com, check us out on YouTube and Instagram, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Sign up for DEN’s monthly newsletter Nonstop News.

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