Travel & Tourism

WASHINGTON, June 11, 2012 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) recognized American Airlines today for the positive impact which the company's recent route network expansion in Los Angeles has had on the city's economy.

In April 2011, American Airlines and American Eagle launched a significant route expansion out of Los Angeles. This expansion led to an increase of almost 30 percent in daily departures and 10 new destinations served, including Shanghai, China. USHCC President & CEO, Javier Palomarez said: "We are delighted that American Airlines' investment during this difficult economic climate is responsible for an estimated additional $600 million a year to the local market bringing American's total impact in Los Angeles to $6 billion. As our nation's largest Hispanic business market, this means more investment and more job creation in our community." In addition to greater access to the Los Angeles market, the new domestic destinations will also benefit from convenient connections to numerous international cities served by American and its partners. "As the Official Airline of the 2012 USHCC National Convention, it is only fitting that American Airlines is facilitating commerce and helping local businesses grow in Los Angeles, California – the host city of our Annual National Convention this September," added Palomarez.

Palomarez explained: "We are proud to have partners such as American Airlines, which facilitates commerce across the United States and around the globe. At a time when corporate responsibility is under scrutiny, their contribution is commendable." American's estimated global economic impact of $130 billion, including $4.2 billion in taxes and fees paid. "In real terms, American Airlines contributed to the creation or support of more than 980,000 jobs, worldwide. That is an economic impact that any company should be proud of," he added.

About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of over 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that combined generate in excess of $420 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local Hispanic chambers and business associations in the United States and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit http://www.ushcc.com.

SOURCE United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce