The local airline BermudAir is already doubling flights on its recently launched service between Bermuda and Halifax to twice a week.

The airline has added Wednesday flights to the Saturday runs beginning July 10.

Founder and CEO of BermudAir Adam Scott commented: “We’re delighted to be increasing our Halifax flights after launching service in May. The response to this route has been remarkable.

“Our inaugural flights were basically full, and bookings have been solid ever since. After a ten-year absence of direct flights, this shows both the opportunity and demand on this route and we’re happy to help fill that previous service gap for Bermuda residents and visitors.”

The new Wednesday flight will leave Bermuda at 8.30am AST, arriving at Halifax Stanfield International Airport at 10.55am. It will return to Bermuda at 11.40am and arrive on the island at 1.55pm. The flight timing is similar to the existing schedule for flights on Saturday.

Mr Scott said: “We’re ensuring that in addition to providing more frequency every week, the timings are convenient for travellers. Feedback from our guests indicates that the combination of this timing and a short 2½-hour flight works from the perspective of both business and leisure travel.”

CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority Tracy Berkeley recognised potential benefits from the increased service for supporting travel to the island from Canada.

She said: “BermudAir’s additional flight to Halifax is a testament to the strong interest in Bermuda as a premier travel destination. This increased service benefits our tourism industry and strengthens the bonds between Bermuda and Canada, making it easier for visitors to experience our island’s appeal.”

Joyce Carter, president and CEO of the Halifax International Airport Authority, also welcomed BermudAir’s decision to expand service to the city.

Ms Carter said: “A second weekly non-stop flight will expand economic opportunities between Halifax and Bermuda, including visitation over long weekends and facilitating more business relationships.

“It’s great to see the popularity of this new service and we congratulate BermudAir on a successful launch in Halifax.”

BermudAir began service to Canada with direct flights to and from Toronto starting on May 17, and to and from Halifax May 25.