United Airlines is to launch a new route between Edinburgh and Chicago from May 2014.
The service to Chicago’s O’Hare airport will operate from May to October with five flights per week between May 23 and June 12 before moving to daily until September 2 and then running four times per week until October 6.
Brian Znotins, United's vice president of network, said: "We're pleased to add Chicago to Edinburgh non-stop service to United's extensive transatlantic route network."
The new flights will depart Chicago at 18.00, arriving in Edinburgh at 07.45 the following day. The return service will depart Edinburgh at 10.25, arriving in Chicago at 13.00 on the same day. United already operates daily flights from Edinburgh to Newark airport.
Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh airport, said: "The announcement of this direct route to Chicago is a fantastic validation of Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole.
“We are delighted to have played our part in developing this route with the other agencies and government departments that make up ‘Team Scotland'. This collaborative approach works and we look forward to bringing many more international routes to Edinburgh in the coming months.”
Edinburgh was purchased by Gatwick owner Global Infrastructure Partners for £807.2 million last year after previous owner BAA was forced to sell either Edinburgh or Glasgow airport by the Competition Commission.
Scotland's first minister Alex Salmond added: "I'm delighted that United Airlines has decided to invest in a new route and enhance its existing service between Scotland and the US.
“By improving direct routes overseas, we can help reduce the need for travellers to make extra connecting flights via London or the continent, support tourism, trade and investment and so further strengthen Scotland's economy.”
united.com
edinburghairport.com