Albany, NY (April 3, 2001) --- Orlando, Florida leads the list of destinations for flyers using Albany International Airport. During 2000, 225,900 passengers boarded flights to the popular vacation destination. Passenger traffic on the busy route has nearly doubled since 1995 when 115,900 travelers flew from Albany to Orlando. Baltimore was the second top choice among Capital Region travelers with 139,300 passengers during 2000.

All Florida destinations accounted for 462,090 passengers during 2000. Now, 32% of all travelers boarding aircraft at Albany International Airport end up in Florida. During the 90's, Florida was the choice of 25% of Albany flyers.

"Significantly lower fares and additional flights have made it possible for more families and individuals to vacation throughout Florida or simply get away for a short break from the northeast's winter weather," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority.

The Albany International Airport broke all previous records for air traffic in 2000 with 1,440,437 passengers boarding planes, an increased 22.5% over 1999.

The following is a list of Albany International Airport's top 10 destinations during 2000:

1. Orlando 225,900
2. Baltimore 139,300
3. Southeast Florida 132,740 ^*
4. Chicago 111,510
5. Southwest Florida 103,450 ^**
6. Washington 91,310
7. Atlanta 86,160
8. Los Angeles 76,970
9. Buffalo 63,890
10. Las Vegas 61,810

* Includes Fort Lauderdale, Miami and West Palm Beach
** Includes Fort Myers and Tampa

Passenger traffic to Las Vegas has also seen a sharp increase, nearly doubling over the past five years. During 2000, 61,810 passengers flew from Albany to Las Vegas compared to 31,910 during 1995.

US Airways carried the most passengers at Albany during 2000. US Airways, including its Metro Jet service boarded 396,524 or 27.5% of all passengers. Delta Airlines was second with 237,359 (16.5%), followed by Southwest Airlines with 204,699 (14.2%).

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