Elite Airways announced a schedule adjustment for its new nonstop jet service between Halifax, Nova Scotia and Portland, Maine. Starting July 2, passengers can fly nonstop on Thursdays and Sundays from Halifax to Portland, or book continuing service to Sarasota-Bradenton in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast.  Likewise, Sarasota-Bradenton passengers who already enjoy nonstop jet service to Portland can also book through to Halifax. One-way “early bird” fares start at $99.00 (USD) for Halifax/Portland, $199.00 (USD) for Portland/Sarasota-Bradenton, and $229.00 (USD) for Halifax/Sarasota-Bradenton, and include all taxes and fees. Tickets are now on sale.

Elite Airways operates a fleet of Bombardier CRJ-200 and CRJ-700 jet airliners known for comfort and efficiency, and maintains an impeccable safety record. Passengers receive free onboard snacks and beverages, first checked bag up to 50lbs and no ticketing change fees. Today’s announcement expands upon the airline’s successful service between Florida and the Northeast by extending service into Atlantic Canada. The new schedule will operate as follows:

Thursdays & Sundays, Starting July 2:

  • Departs Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) at 9:30 a.m. - Arrives Portland (PWM) at 12:30 p.m.
  • Departs Portland (PWM) at 1:15 p.m. - Arrives Halifax (YHZ) at 3:30 p.m. *one hour time change
  • Departs Halifax (YHZ) at 4:15 p.m. - Arrives Portland (PWM) at 4:30 p.m. *one hour time change
  • Departs Portland (PWM) at 5:15 p.m. - Arrives Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) 8:15 p.m.

“The demand for our flights between Maine and Florida continues to be strong, and we believe there’s a unique opportunity to extend this service to Halifax, Nova Scotia—as Florida is also a key market for Canada,” says John Pearsall, president of Elite Airways. “As a Maine-based business we are especially proud to expand our Florida to Northeast routes to now include Atlantic Canada, and we thank government, city and airport officials for their support.”

“The addition of direct Halifax service via Portland, Maine shows Elite Airways’ commitment for continued success at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ),” says Rick Piccolo, SRQ president and chief executive officer. “Adding the new Canadian route will provide a needed link for our Halifax friends. We look forward to continued growth for Elite Airways at SRQ.”

“We are looking forward to Elite Airways serving Halifax and are delighted with the addition of service to Sarasota-Bradenton. This direct flight will now offer our Halifax passengers two new destinations in the US and will help boost inbound tourism from the US to Nova Scotia, Canada,” says Bert van der Stege, vice president and chief commercial officer at the Halifax International Airport Authority.