Travellers between Bermuda and the US now have another direct route to choose from, as BermudAir launched nonstop weekly flights to Charleston, South Carolina, over the Easter weekend.

The new Saturday service, which took off on April 19, operates between LF Wade International Airport and Charleston International Airport, using a 70-seat Embraer E175 jet. The flight time is a little more than two hours.

It is the third US route BermudAir has launched this month, part of a wider expansion of the airline’s East Coast network.

“We’re so pleased to bring Bermuda and Charleston closer together,” said Adam Scott, founder and chief executive of BermudAir. “Charleston's mix of Southern elegance and warm hospitality mirrors our island’s spirit, and we look forward to welcoming travellers from both places, whether for an exciting getaway, a business venture or to discover the timeless beauty of Bermuda.”

The new route gives Bermuda residents a direct link to Charleston’s well-known historic district, food scene and arts community. In return, Charleston locals can now access Bermuda’s pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters and island culture without a layover, according to the airline.

Elliott Summey, executive director and chief executive of Charleston International Airport, said the launch was a “significant milestone for both regions” that would “strengthen economic and cultural ties”.

Helen Hill, chair of the aviation authority and chief executive of Explore Charleston, added that the route reflected the region’s appeal: “We know how selective airlines are when choosing where to place their resources and are proud to join BermudAir’s network and build on this partnership in the future.”

BermudAir now flies to more than ten North American cities, including Westchester, Boston, Orlando, Raleigh-Durham and Toronto, as it continues its push to improve direct access between Bermuda and key US and Canadian markets.