Skybus paid to have attendants tout Ohio town


Skybus has been paid an unidentified sum by an Ohio village in exchange for having its flight attendants sing the town's praises. Skybus, a self-described "ultra-low-cost carrier," is the same carrier that pays its attendants commissions for hawking onboard retail items to fliers. As for the latest cost-conscious gimmick, the central Ohio village of Canal Winchester has bought what's being described by The Associated Press as onboard "commercial time." The Columbus Dispatch says the town of 5,500 is touting itself to Skybus fliers as "the premier tourist destination in southeastern central Ohio."AP says that "during landings in Columbus, where Skybus is based, flight attendants are telling passengers that Canal Winchester offers tourists unique shopping, dining and recreational facilities."
Canal Winchester's deal lasts through Jan. 15. So, what's the cost? AP says "the village's development director won't say how much officials paid, just that they got a good value compared to Skybus' standard sponsorship rate of $4,000 per month." Chris Strayer, the development director, tells the Dispatch: "It was a good opportunity. We're looking at targeting not only the tourists, but also business people who might want to check out the business climate here." And kudos to the Dispatch for answering the obvious question. The newspaper writes: "In case you're wondering, Canal Winchester attractions include a museum and hall of fame dedicated to barbering, and the Mid-Ohio Doll and Toy Museum."