Orlando Int'l takes aim at MIA perishable trade. (Orlando International Airport; Miami International Airport)

Flower auction, big USDA inspection station are lures to entice business to growing airport

ORLANDO -- Orlando's establishment of a 102-acre flower auction at Orlando International Airport exemplifies the central TABULAR DATA OMITTED Florida city's commitment to entice business, especially international business, away from Miami.

The latest development represents a continuing concern that Orlando is luring, or at least trying to win, business from Miami International Airport.

* Last year, Dade County Aviation Authority cargo development chief Jim Laria resigned to take a similar position with the Orlando Aviation Authority.

* Orlando became the first Florida city to be awarded a Japan air link, with All Nippon Airways flying between Orlando and Tokyo via Washington, D.C. Flights started in December 1990, delaying even further plans by Japan Airlines to link Miami and the Orient.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority board made a final determination on July 22 for a planned 102-acre flower …