The Orlando-Sanford Airport wants taxpayers to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars to lure two new European airlines to the airport. But critics say it's a waste.

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The airport board voted in favor of the incentive packages Tuesday. An airline from Scotland and Iceland would split $1 million over the next seven years. The airport board agreed to the deal at a time when other airlines are stiffing them.

The Orlando-Sanford Airport is owed more $1 million from airlines that flew out of it. While they're working on collecting that, they agreed to a $1 million deal to bring new carriers.

Fast-growing Orlando-Sanford Airport may add 160,000 passengers with two new European airlines.

"I think almost anyone would acknowledge the benefit that bringing international passengers to Orlando would have on the community," said Larry Goldthorpe, Orlando-Sanford Airport.

Managers figure they'll rent cars, shop, and eat. But taxpayers had to open up their wallets for the deal. Iceland Air and Flyglobespan, out of Scotland, would each get $75,000 a year for seven years.

The Airport Authority and Seminole County government split the cost. No one is paid if the airline pulls out.

"It's a disturbing trend," said Sean Concannon.

He is an opponent on any government money given to corporations. He figures Central Florida is its own incentive.

"We're one of the largest tourist destinations in the world. Airlines have to fly here. They don't have a choice. You can't drop people off in Miami who want to get to Orlando," Concannon said.

He's also not convinced international visitors will spend much in Seminole County, but probably travel to Orange County attractions.

"We don't have any sort of direct information that shows the break out, but we know they are. They're renting cars here in Seminole County, they're using restaurants here. These airlines are putting their crews in Seminole County hotels," Goldthorpe said.

Airport manager said incentives were pretty common for smaller airports and, in some cases, much more generous than this one. This is the first time Orlando-Sanford Airport has given an incentive to an airline.