Lovely weather and a great turnout for Branson Airport’s tailgate party celebrating the arrival of local service by Southwest Airlines. People were lined up outside the gates when they opened at 10 a.m.

The crowd included residents from across the Tri-Lakes area, including State Representative Jeff Justus of Branson…

Jeff Justus D532  :18  “… appreciate your business”

Many, like Branson Veterans Taskforce Chairman Ernie Bradley, are excited about the new destinations they’ll be able to reach with Southwest…

Ernie Bradley D533  :07  “… friends in Coco Beach”

The tailgate party included performances by the New South Quartet, the Blues Brothers from Legends in Concert, Premiere Dance Academy and many more. The event was emceed by KRZK’s Steve Willoughby and Janet Ellis.

The first commercial flights touched down at Branson Airport in May 2009. Airport officials say the arrival of Southwest Airlines is the culmination of six years of hard work.