CAL to launch new Houston-Auckland service in 2011

CONTINENTAL Airlines plans to begin nonstop Boeing 787 flights to Auckland, New Zealand from its hub in Houston, starting November 16, 2011, subject to government approval.

Auckland will be added to the 63 international destinations that Continental currently serves nonstop from Houston, and will become the 26th destination in Continental's Pacific network.

Continental will be one of three airlines flying nonstop between North America and New Zealand. At approximately 7,400 miles, the new route will be the longest from Continental's Houston hub. Continental plans to operate the route on a daily basis, with five-times-weekly service during certain periods in the first year of operation, a statement from the carrier said.

This comes after Continental announced earlier this month that it has agreed to merge with United Airlines to create the "world's leading airline." The success of the Houston-Auckland route will be enhanced by the additional traffic flows through Houston that are expected to result from the merger.

Continental said it has firm orders for 25 Dreamliners. The Boeing 787 offers lower operating costs and better environmental performance. Deliveries to Continental are expected to begin in August 2011.

Jeff Smisek, Continental's chairman, president and CEO, said: "This hub has ongoing growth opportunities because it has a strategic location, space for expansion, support from the community and an excellent team of Continental co-workers."

"This new flight between Houston and Auckland shows how the Dreamliner will create new opportunities to connect global markets that currently are not being served," added Mario Diaz, Houston Airport System director of aviation.

(Source:www.schednet.com)