Continental Airlines has inaugurated non-stop flights between its New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (PLS).

Initially the flights will operate four times a week, on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, converting to daily service on March 6th, 2011.

“We are pleased to offer convenient access to Providenciales, a world-class get-away and an exciting new addition to the list of Caribbean destinations served by Continental and United,” said Rigoberto Alvarenga, Continental Airlines’ regional director Caribbean.

The approximately three-and-a-half-hour flight – operating under code CO 610 - will depart Newark at 09:35, arriving in Providenciales at 13:10.

The return flight - CO 609 - will depart Providenciales at 14:05, arriving in Newark at 17:45 and will utilise a Boeing 737-800 for the new service with seating for 160 passengers (16 in first class and 144 in economy).

“The Tourist Board is delighted with the new Continental service to the islands from Newark, which is the main airline hub in the north-eastern United States,” commented Ralph Higgs, director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board.

“This is a step in the right direction for us, and it reinforces the fact that our continued marketing and promotional efforts are paying off.

“Turks and Caicos has the airlift, the attractions, the services and amenities and, more importantly, we have the friendliest personalities that will make each visitor feel welcomed and ensure that they will come to visit us again and again.

“The Tourist Board is excited that this service will present new travel options for potential visitors and investors, and we join our tourism partners in welcoming Continental Airlines.”

The new service complements the airline’s service to other top Caribbean leisure destinations like Aruba, Punta Cana and Nassau.