SANFORD, Fla. — A little Smoky Mountain spirit took flight from Central Florida as Orlando Sanford International Airport teamed up with Allegiant and Dollywood Parks & Resorts to launch its themed “Destination Dollywood” flights Friday.
Flights 925 and 2925 kicked off the experience with live music, interactive activities, themed giveaways and a character send-off before passengers departed Sanford for Knoxville, Tennessee.
Bringing Dollywood to the airport
The experience was designed to bring some of Dollywood’s hospitality into the airport terminal and onboard the aircraft. Travelers took part in interactive activities and photo opportunities before boarding their flights.
The event was a collaboration between Orlando Sanford International Airport, Las Vegas-based Allegiant and Dollywood Parks & Resorts.
“We love seeing our travelers excited about where they’re headed and we want them to feel that excitement the moment they walk through our doors,” airport President and CEO Nicole Martz said. “Destination Dollywood brings that spirit to life. We’re delighted to partner with Allegiant and Dollywood to bring some extra fun to the terminal and give our travelers a memorable start to their trip.”
Music, characters and a Dollywood send-off
The Roberts Sisters brought Smoky Mountain sounds to the terminal with live performances. Passengers also participated in interactive games and photo opportunities and received giveaways including Dollywood’s signature kettle corn and plush toys.
Dollywood characters Flit and Flutter greeted travelers at the gate and gathered on the airfield ramp to send off departing passengers. Once airborne, travelers experienced Dollywood-themed in-flight entertainment on their way to Knoxville.
Flight 925 departed Sanford for McGhee Tyson Airport at 12:47 p.m., followed by Flight 2925 at 4:16 p.m.
Orlando Sanford International Airport
Orlando Sanford International Airport is located in Sanford, about 20 miles north of Orlando. Owned and operated by the Sanford Airport Authority, the airport welcomes approximately 3.1 million passengers annually and offers nonstop service to more than 70 destinations on six airlines. Allegiant is the airport’s largest carrier and longtime partner.
Dollywood Parks & Resorts, located near the Great Smoky Mountains, has operated since 1986. The property includes the Dollywood theme park, Dollywood’s Splash Country water park, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.
Allegiant is based in Las Vegas and connects travelers in small and mid-sized communities with vacation destinations across the United States.
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