MUSIC LEGEND GEORGE BENSON HOME SAFE AFTER EMERGENCY LANDING ON BRITISH AIRWAYS CONCORDE

New York, July 31st, 2000-Guitar/vocal great George Benson, one of the passengers on the British Airways Concorde that was forced to make an emergency stop early this morning, is back at home resting comfortably, although a bit shaken by the experience.

The music legend was returning home after a just-completed, five-week tour of Europe in support of his latest release, Absolute Benson (GRP Records). The British Airways Concorde flight on which he was traveling was forced to make an emergency landing in Gander, Newfoundland, after the flight crew smelled gasoline in the cabin.

“I've always felt there is no greater ride across the Atlantic than the Concorde, which has always been my favorite," Benson said. “So although I was a little nervous because of the recent accident, I felt confident boarding the flight."

He continues: “We began to hear some strange noises, and the temperature began to increase in the part of the cabin where I was sitting. One of the crew members noticed a funny smell and notified the captain. I praise the captain for the way he handled the situation-he did not want to take any extra chances, and he put the safety of the passengers first. He made a great landing in Gander, Newfoundland, where we were made comfortable in the airport until they brought in a 737 to fly us to New York. We all made it home safely, and that is the important thing. British Airways was extremely professional in their handling of the situation."

Benson plans a few weeks of well-deserved rest and time with his family before resuming a U.S. tour in late August.