For the first time since 2016, a direct flight to Newark Liberty Airport will soon be on the departures board at St. John’s International Airport.
United Airlines will be providing the daily service to the greater New York area starting in June of 2027 and running until September.
The CEO of the airport authority, Dennis Hogan, says they know there’s been a lot of demand for the route in recent years and they’re excited to finally have an agreement in place.
St. John’s International Airport CEO Dennis Hogan (VOCM News)
He says it’s not just as simple as picking up the phone and asking an airline to set up shop. The effort involves various stakeholders from the airport and government, local businesses and those working in the hospitality industry.
He says it’s a competitive process as airports right across Canada are also looking to bring in new routes or extend their current offerings. Between the various groups involved, they were able to make the case that demand between YYT and Newark would be a profitable venture for the airline.
Listen to “SJIAA CEO Dennis Hogan” on Spreaker.
The hope is that the route will be successful enough to be able to offer it on an expanded schedule.
Hogan says right now, it’s just for 2027, but if things go as projected, it would hopefully return at least on a seasonal basis with the possibility of expansion down the road.
Bookings are expected to open this week or early next week.
