DuPage Airport is preparing to accommodate the 2012 Ryder Cup, a global sporting event taking place Sept. 28-30 at Medinah Country Club in suburban Chicago. The airport expects increased traffic during the event to include Ryder Cup players, among them the most elite golfers from the U.S. and Europe, as well as thousands of spectators and reporters.

“Our Flight Center has been working closely with the PGA and the Ryder Cup planners to provide a full service transportation hub for the best golfers in the world and the crowds and media that are expected to attend," said David Bird, Executive Director of the DuPage Airport. “The airport has the state-of-the-art facilities and professional staff to handle this major international sporting event.”

The U.S. Ryder Cup team, captained by Davis Love III, will feature such golf luminaries as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and recent Masters Cup winner Bubba Watson, while the European team will feature Rory McIIroy, Luke Donald and Lee Westwood. The Europeans will defend their title at Medinah in what has become one of the most watched sporting events in the world. 

“From the moment the planes touch down in DuPage, travelers will be met with airport staff dedicated to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience; including full on-site customs, liaison with transport and lodging, and 24/7 concierge service,” Bird added. “We look forward to welcoming those participating in the Ryder Cup and invite them to return for a future trip.”

The west suburban airport has four active runways, a 1 million-square-foot apron and 2 ILS approaches. The longest runway, which spans 7,570 feet, is the second longest runway in the Chicago area after O’Hare International Airport. Aside from O’Hare and Midway, DuPage is the only facility in the region with a 24-hour control tower, and is also equipped with a 24/7 Airfield Rescue and Fire Fighting Vehicle. 

The DuPage Flight Center offers a full array of professional services and amenities, including an on-site restaurant and concierge support for over 60 nearby dining, hotel, theater and shopping options. The county is expecting the prestigious event will drive tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors to its restaurants, hotels and shops.

DuPage Airport’s capacity to handle large-scale events was demonstrated at the recent NATO Summit in Chicago when air traffic at the facility quadrupled in daily volume without any delays. Last year, the airport earned praise from the National Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who celebrated the facility as an “economic engine” and “a model for the nation.” This year, the facility received the Excellence in Procurement Award from the Airport Consultants Council (ACC).

SOURCE: DuPage Airport Authority