The first nonstop transatlantic flight from Europe to South Carolina was announced last month. British Airways will have two flights per week from London’s Heathrow Airport to Charleston International Airport from April 4 to October 24 beginning in 2019.
This is great news for Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand because it will be even easier for European visitors to get to the Grand Strand and enjoy the many attractions, including the beaches, golf courses and more. Studies show that international travelers stay longer and spend more money than domestic tourists. Governor Henry McMaster’s office estimates the economic impact from the flights could exceed more than $20 million annually in tourism for South Carolina.
The Myrtle Beach Sun News recently interviewed Scott Schult. EVP of Marketing for the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, and Bill Golden, president of Golf Tourism Solutions.
“That really is a win for the state. It will give people the opportunity to see more in the state than just the Charleston region. We’re going to do everything we can to work collaboratively with the state and the coastal regions and do our best to get some of those folks into Myrtle Beach, into the area.”
Strand tourism officials plan to work with tourism executives in other areas of the state – particularly Charleston and Hilton Head – to create a combined effort targeting European travelers that could benefit all areas.
Golden said Charleston tourism officials have already reached out to him with a willingness to promote Myrtle Beach for the flights, and he expects golf tour and golf package operators to include Strand courses in their offerings.
Read the full story on Myrtle Beach Sun News - What a new transatlantic flight means for Strand golf, tourism. Is Myrtle Beach next?