DIRECT flights from the North-East to New York take off this weekend.

The United Airlines service to Newark commences from Newcastle International Airport on Saturday and will run five-days-a-week until September 7.

Airport chiefs hope that strong demand from North-East business passengers and holidaymakers will see the prestigious service return next year.

David Laws, chief executive at Newcastle International Airport, said:

“We’re all getting very excited to welcome United Airlines to the North East and preparations are largely complete as we gear up for this important day.

“The service will operate five times a week and already has thousands of holidaymakers and business travellers booked to fly.

“It’s no surprise that the number one destination is New York, however passengers are making the most of United’s excellent route network to connect onto numerous destinations beyond.

“With over 300 onward connections, places such as Florida, Las Vegas, Chicago, Washington, Boston, Toronto, Los Angeles and San Francisco are all proving very popular.

“Some travellers are even using the flight to reach Hawaii.”