World Cup travel surge boosts aviation industry, company says

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MISSOURI (KBSI) – As FIFA World Cup matches get underway in the United States, aviation companies are reporting an increase in travel demand driven by fans traveling to host cities across the country.

Barry Shevlin, CEO of private aviation company FlyUSA, said the company has experienced a recent surge in bookings related to the tournament.

Shevlin said FlyUSA, which serves approximately 2,500 to 2,600 clients through its charter brokerage operations, expected World Cup-related demand to increase but has recently seen a noticeable uptick in travel requests.

The company has also seen a rise in international travelers arriving in the United States, including visitors traveling to Kansas City for World Cup matches and events.

Shevlin said the influx of visitors is expected to generate economic benefits for host communities, including increased business for hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and aviation companies.

According to Shevlin, FlyUSA expects June to be the strongest month in the company’s history from a revenue standpoint, which he largely attributes to World Cup-related travel.

Industry estimates project approximately 1.24 million international visitors will travel to the United States during the FIFA World Cup.