News Release (19/05/09)
Continental Airlines’ New York service flies into fifth year of operation
Bristol International celebrates the fourth anniversary of Continental Airlines’ Bristol-New York service on Wednesday 20th May by treating outbound passengers to refreshments at the airport’s Seafood Bar – where, appropriately enough, Manhattan cocktails will be on the menu!
The daily transatlantic flight has carried over 320,000 passengers since commencing in May 2005 and remains the only direct scheduled link between the US and the South West and Wales. As well as providing a direct route between Bristol International and the Big Apple, Continental’s service also connects to more than 200 cities throughout the Americas via the airline’s New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Shaun Browne, Aviation Director at Bristol International Airport, said:
“The New York route is important for the economy because it provides local firms with direct access to the North American market and makes the South West a more attractive place to do business for American companies. Continental’s service also brings thousands of leisure visitors to the region every year, benefiting local hotels, restaurants and attractions.”
Bob Schumacher, Continental Airlines’ Senior Director U.K. & Ireland, said:
“We are encouraged by the performance of our Bristol-New York service, notwithstanding the effects of the economic slowdown that have impacted the airline industry globally.
“An ever-increasing number of both business and leisure travellers in the South West and South Wales are recognising the advantages of being able to fly non-stop across the Atlantic, year-round, from their local airport. We are also pleased that more and more Americans, aided by a stronger dollar, are using the service to visit Bristol and Bath and the South West, which is great news for local businesses and the regional economy.”
Approximately one third of the passengers currently using the service are US-originating visitors to the UK. The launch of the route also corresponds with an upturn in trade between the South West and North America, which has outperformed the UK average since the service started.
Inbound passengers on 20th May will receive a goody bag containing discount vouchers for local attractions (Thermae Bath Spa and Bristol Sightseeing Tours), samples of local produce and information about the South West.
Representatives from Bristol International, Continental and Destination Bristol recently teamed up to promote the region to workers at the airline’s American call centres. The delegation visited Florida, Houston and Salt Lake City and met with hundreds of agents responsible for booking flights to the UK.