Birmingham International Airport welcomed on May 13 the inaugural service by US Airways to Philadelphia.
The new, seasonal 5-times-weekly service is the first direct link between Birmingham and Philadelphia, and gives passengers another route to destinations in the US such as: Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando, Miami, San Francisco and Tampa. Onward travel also includes Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America.
Paul Kehoe, CEO of Birmingham International Airport, was on hand to welcome the passengers this morning and said: “Having US Airways as one of our partners is excellent news, not just for the Airport but also for the region.
This established carrier, which is part of the Star Alliance, announced that it would be flying from Birmingham back in October last year, and we are delighted that they have shown both confidence in the region and Birmingham during what are extremely trying times. It is encouraging that the outbound flight this morning is over 70% full which is excellent for an inaugural.
“Having US Airways on board to Philadelphia will help us to welcome home some of the 60% of the regions’ travelers who punish themselves by driving miles along crowded motorways to other Airports hours away.”
Senior Vice President, East Coast, International and Cargo Operations Suzanne Boda said, “We’re thrilled to expand our presence in the United Kingdom with new Birmingham flying. Customers in both countries will have spectacular access to and from the U.S. via our Philadelphia International Gateway from Birmingham. We appreciate the support and hard work of Birmingham officials as well as the continued support and commitment of the Philadelphia City Division of Aviation.”
Cassie Muir, Executive Director, British American Business Council – Birmingham, added, “As an organization that promotes the strong transatlantic trade relationship that the UK and the US share, we are delighted with the start of this transatlantic route on US Airways. Many of our organization’s members travel to the US on a regular basis for business purposes, so this route from Birmingham directly into Philadelphia and beyond, allows companies within our region greater access to the US, and also allows ease of transport in the reverse manner. This route on US Airways will help save companies time by providing them with direct access into the midlands region where many viable business interests lie.”
Flights will operate five times a week, arriving into Birmingham at 06:25. The service will then depart at 08:45, arriving in Philadelphia at 11:50.
Operating a 757-200 aircraft, US Airways will offer a mixed cabin of 164 Economy seats and 12 business class seats through its Envoy product which offers passengers the following service:
- Wider seats that recline up to 160 degrees for a truly relaxing flight. Four-way adjustable headrest and lumbar support;
- Amenity kit;
- Individual, on-demand entertainment units featuring a wide selection of movies, television and audio programming;
- In-seat laptop power outlet (adapter free);
- Dedicated check-in counters, priority boarding and baggage handling;
Passengers interested in booking on US Airways should visit www.usairways.co.uk or call 0845 6003300 to make a reservation.
