WHAT:
AAA is offering live or taped virtual interviews on this year’s Route 66 Centennial and recent national survey data showing strong and growing interest in Route 66 travel—even as gas prices remain higher than last year.
WHO:
- Doug Shupe, AAA Corporate Communications Manager (English)
- Anlleyn Venegas, AAA Senior Public Affairs Specialist (Spanish)
WHEN:
Interview availability:
- Wednesday, April 29
- Thursday, April 30
- Friday, May 1
***Flexible for early morning, midday, or evening newscasts.
WHERE:
- Virtually via Zoom (media outlets supply the link)
- Interviews can be conducted from a 1959 Cadillac El Dorado during a live Route 66 road trip from Flagstaff, Arizona to Santa Monica, California, providing high-impact visuals.
VISUALS (B-ROLL AVAILABLE):
- Vintage Route 66 footage
- Iconic landmarks including classic diners, roadside attractions, and open-road shots
- AAA can provide b-roll in advance so anchors can talk over visuals or enhance packages
WHY IT MATTERS:
- 41% of Americans say they plan to visit Route 66 during the 2026 Centennial, with another 15% interested after learning about it
- Interest spans generations—families, couples, friends, motorcyclists, RV travelers, and nostalgia seekers
- Survey was conducted last fall, prior to recent gas price increases, yet AAA expects travel demand to remain strong as Route 66 represents a bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime journey
- Route 66 turns 100 years old in 2026, making this a timely preview of what’s shaping up to be one of the biggest travel stories of the year
INTERVIEW ANGLES:
- Why Route 66 remains an enduring symbol of American freedom and adventure
- How families and travelers can budget smartly—even with changing fuel prices
- What travelers are most excited to see during the Centennial year
- AAA’s top planning tips for first-time Route 66 road trippers
- AAA’s historic role in mapping, improving, and promoting America’s roadways—including Route 66
TECH DETAILS:
- AAA spokespeople will provide all necessary audio and video equipment
- TV and radio outlets only need to supply a Zoom link
- Suitable for live interviews or clean taped segments
BOOKING / MEDIA CONTACT:
Doug Shupe, shupe.doug@ace.aaa.com, 512-659-1632 (English)
Anlleyn Venegas, venegas.anlleyn@ace.aaa.com, 619-565-4556 (Spanish)