A travel consultant expressed "shock, disbelief" upon learning that Denver International Airport (DIA) executives spent up to $19,000 for roundtrip airfare to attend an aviation conference in Madrid. The consultant, Rob Laney, who specializes in helping travelers save money on flight upgrades, found the expenses exorbitant.

CBS News Colorado investigated the expenditures, revealing that CEO Phil Washington and eight executive staff members traveled first and business class to Madrid from April 8-10. One roundtrip ticket on United cost over $19,000, while others were just under $16,000 or exceeded $12,000. The trip, funded by airport revenues from concessions, rental car fees, and user fees, totaled approximately $165,000 for airfares, hotels, ground transportation, and meals.

Laney believes that with better planning, the DIA contingent could have flown first/business class for $4,000 to $5,000 per passenger. He noted that the absence of a Saturday night stay likely increased costs, as airlines often categorize travelers without such stays as business travelers willing to pay higher fares. The DIA group was gone from Sunday through Friday. Laney also suggested that patience and comparison shopping could have yielded better deals on upgraded seats.

He questioned the high prices, noting that the flights were booked in April, not peak season, and well in advance. Laney stated, "We just don't see people paying $10,000 to go to Europe two months in advance, in April. Those are the numbers you see a week before the flight, under duress -- not months in advance."

CEO Phil Washington defended the expenses, stating, "International travel is costly. Those costs may seem high but it's an investment in our people." He also noted that DIA's travel policy allows for employee upgrades for flights over 8 hours.

However, other airports and government agencies have stricter rules. The federal government only allows upgrades for flights over 14 hours or in extenuating circumstances. Miami International Airport generally does not reimburse upgrades, requiring a written explanation and prior approval. Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas mandates coach/economy class travel unless specifically authorized.

Washington has indicated he may review DIA's travel policy, maintaining that the trip was worthwhile and that they will continue to seek the lowest costs. Brian Maass of CBS News Colorado is investigating the story.