Pacific Blue adds new LA connection

EASIER TRAVEL: Los Angeles-bound passengers will now be spared the hassle of a trip to Auckland.

Pacific Blue has announced a new service to Los Angeles from Hamilton International Airport.

Flights will leave Hamilton on a Monday and arrive from Los Angeles on a Friday.

The cheapest fare available this morning was an economy promotional deal at $814 one way to Los Angeles.

Pacific Blue communications manager Phil Boeyen said return flights would range in price from $1649 to $1945.

The service will use the existing Pacific Blue flights from Hamilton to Brisbane, passengers connecting with Virgin Australia's Los Angeles service.

Airport chief executive Chris Doak said the additional long-haul service added convenience and ease for central North Island residents wanting to fly to the United States.

"It means less time, cost and hassle driving up to Auckland."

He said it showed a commitment by Virgin Blue to connecting the Hamilton market to the world.

"It was something we had talked about in bringing Pacific Blue to Hamilton. Perhaps in time we might have direct connections with Asia and beyond. That was something we also talked about."

He said the central North Island catchment would eventually determine what services they wanted from their airport, dictated by the number of passengers using the services available.

"From a destination port point of view Los Angeles offers a lot of sex appeal," Mr Doak said.

He said he was not concerned about ongoing discussions for the creation of an alliance between Pacific Blue and Air New Zealand.

While other airports have voiced concern about the planned alliance he did not believe, if it went ahead, it would impact on Hamilton's offering of flights or destinations.

He said the industry overall was watching developments with interest.

Central Business Association chairman and Sky City Hamilton general manager Arthur Pitcher said the more international links Hamilton could get the better. "It's fantastic. Any increase in international flights is a chance to link Hamilton to the great tourism market. I'm delighted."

The airport's flat car parking rate of $28 for international passengers will apply for the Los Angeles service.

- © Fairfax NZ News