on the Island.

Two airlines, USAirways and American Airlines, are offering discounts for wedding parties who travel together as part of direct marketing to that sector.

And USAirways is also offering couples a chance to win a trip to Bermuda if they book with them.

Bermuda is a popular wedding and honeymoon destination, and often large groups travel to the Island for ceremonies and a holiday.

Department of Tourism assistant director, marketing, Cherrie Whitter said they often cooperate with airlines' partners and wholesalers to offer packages to the Island.

Under USAirways' plan, parties of ten or more can get discounts of five percent off the lowest applicable fare and ten percent off the unrestricted coach fare. They get an additional five percent off for buying tickets at least 60 days in advance.

The airline also offers an incentive to the bride and groom by entering them in contest for a trip to Bermuda.

Although other airlines offer group discounts, only USAirways and American are wooing wedding travellers directly, according to Keith Harrison of American.

American offers ten or more wedding guests a five-to-ten-percent discount from published airfares and discounts for car rentals.

The wedding couple receives a packet of airline coupons for up to four one-way upgrades on domestic flights, a discount for car rental and coupons for four free drinks and headsets.