NORTH-EAST travellers will soon be able to fly directly from the region to the Big Apple with the world's largest airline, it has been revealed.

Newcastle International Airport announced yesterday that American Airlines is to operate a new daily scheduled service to New York's John F Kennedy airport from May next year. It will be the first non-stop scheduled link between the two cities.

The service will be operated by American Airlines using Boeing 757 aircraft, offering an all-economy class service with 188 seats.

Speaking at the launch, Newcastle International chief executive John Parkin said: "American Airlines' new service to New York is of great significance, both regionally and internationally.

"The North-East region will now be directly connected with the single most important market in the world.

"We look forward to a long- lasting relationship with this culturally and economically vibrant region."

Craig Kreeger, American Airlines' vice-president Europe and Pacific, said: "The new service will provide a very convenient link for business and leisure travellers whose destination is New York or the many destinations throughout the Americas and the Caribbean that we serve from there."

He said the service would be put on sale in the next few weeks, at which time fares will be announced.

UK Aviation Minister Karen Buck said: "It is excellent news for the economy of the region and for passengers wishing to fly directly between the North-East and the US.

"It also shows clearly how the Government's policy of supporting the development of regional airports is producing results on the ground, with tangible benefits for the regions they serve."