Airport officials cut international business travel over spending concerns

Indianapolis Airport Authority officials are dodging questions about the travel budget under the airport's former chief executive.

"The focus of the prior administration was somewhat different than the current administration," said Bob Duncan, the airport's interim executive director.

The prior administration was led by John Clark, Fox59 interviewed him before his contract was not renewed. A Fox59 investigation revealed the airport had spent nearly $137,000 on business travel in the first eight months of 2011.

"That's how we build and establish business so we have a seat at the table," said Clark in November.

He was talking about business trips overseas and in the U.S. for conferences, meetings and training. On the list was a $2,500 golf trip.

"Part of the culture is to play golf," said Clark.

Fox59 asked airport board President Mike Wells if the trips far exceeded what they wanted to do in terms of increasing business.

"In my opinion yes," Wells said.

The airport board approved a travel schedule for the rest of 2012. They brought back an old screening process where the trips must be reviewed and approved.

In a memo, Interim Executive Director Bob Duncan said they must "ensure value for time and expense invested."

"Seventy-nine trips were approved out of more than 100 recommendations."

There are only three scheduled trips to Canada. Duncan said they are focused on staying within the U.S.

"To say there would not be a need to go international, maybe. It depends on the circumstances, but it certainly won't be a regular event, and it'll be certainly be subject to board approval before that occurs," said Duncan.