BermudAir’s inaugural flight to Baltimore took to the air yesterday, marking the carrier’s thousandth flight since the company launched service to the US six months ago.

Adam Scott, founder and chief executive, said the company was “thrilled” with both milestones.

"Our year-round service to Baltimore provides Bermuda residents with another convenient link to the US East Coast for leisure, business and, very importantly, medical travel.

“It's also a great addition for inbound travellers from overseas."

The Baltimore NBC news channel WBAL was among media covering BermudAir's arrival at Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Guests on board included Karen Grissette, the US Consul-General to Bermuda, with representatives from local firms supplying the carrier’s Bermuda-inspired in-flight food and beverages.

Mr Scott thanked Ahmani's Cookies, Bacardi, Bermuda Craft Brewery, Bermuda Gin Company, Bermuda Trail Mix, Butterfield and Vallis, Confections, Gibbons Company, Goslings, L'Artisan Boulangerie and 9 Parishes for “exceptional service to our guests”.

Representatives from King Edward VII Memorial Hospital also travelled on the flight, underscoring Bermuda's longstanding relationship with Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Scott Pearman, chief executive of the Bermuda Hospitals Board, hailed the introduction of the direct flight to Baltimore as “a game-changer for our patients”.

“It not only streamlines the travel process but also significantly lessens the burden on individuals and families during what can already be a challenging time.”

He added: “No longer will they have to navigate multiple layers and endure extended travel times, but instead they can enjoy a seamless journey directly to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore."

The aircraft was met at BWI with the traditional water cannon salute.

Officials from BWI, led by executive director and chief executive Ricky Smith, greeted the flight, with a ribbon-cutting and speeches.

BermudAir will fly to Baltimore three times a week.

Details and bookings are available via the BermudAir app or the carrier’s website.