Porter Airlines brings new style to air travel in New York market

Tickets on sale tomorrow for flights beginning March 31 between Toronto City Centre Airport and Newark Liberty International

TORONTO, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- With a focus on delivering convenience, speed and service in short-haul air travel, Toronto-based Porter Airlines is expanding into the U.S. market with seven daily roundtrip flights between Toronto City Centre Airport (TCCA) and Newark Liberty International Airport starting March 31, 2008. Weekend service consists of two Saturday roundtrips and three Sunday roundtrips. Passengers can purchase tickets tomorrow for Porter flights at www.flyporter.com or (888) 619-8622. Fares start at $120 CDN, plus applicable fees and taxes, for one-way flights.

Already a favorite carrier in the Canadian market for its simple fare structure, high-frequency schedule and outstanding service, Porter aims to build a loyal customer base in New York as a fresh alternative in North American air travel.

Don Carty, chairman of Porter Airlines, said: "Porter's vision of becoming North America's most innovative short-haul carrier is more of a reality with the announcement of our Toronto-New York route. We recognized a need for time-sensitive urban travellers to move quickly and comfortably between the New York City metro area and downtown Toronto and are now acting to fulfill that need."

Porter Airlines flies from its own dedicated terminal at Toronto City Centre Airport, one of the most convenient urban airports in the world, situated just minutes from downtown. Complimentary Porter shuttle buses offer passengers a short transfer to Union Station, only steps from the financial and entertainment districts. The airport is also accessible by public transit, taxi, limo or personal vehicle.

"Flights between Toronto and the New York metropolitan area have never been more convenient," said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. "TCCA offers passengers a time savings of up to two hours or more compared to flying out of busy, congested Pearson Airport.

"Porter Airlines is committed to providing business and leisure customers with an affordable, stylish and seamless experience. We've been successfully delivering on this promise for 15 months and are ready to bring it to New York."

Simplicity is at the core of Porter's philosophy. From the pricing structure to the service concept, the airline's aim is to keep things smart, yet uncomplicated. Travellers will appreciate Porter's transparent fare structure, offering three options: Freedom, Flexible and Firm, with a variety of choices including complimentary changes and cancellations, advance seat selection and same-day changes at the airport. Passengers clear Canadian and U.S. customs at Toronto City Centre and Newark Liberty International airports, respectively.

Known for reliability, quality and efficiency, Porter provides passengers with warm and effortless hospitality. Customer service staff and flight crew uniforms are designed by Pink Tartan, a Toronto- and New York-based fashion label.

While on board, passengers enjoy complimentary premium snacks, wine and beer, a spacious cabin environment with leather upholstery, and extra legroom. All Porter passengers have access to a modern, comfortable and stylish lounge at Toronto City Centre Airport, including wireless Internet access, refreshments, and a business centre.

Porter Airlines flies the 70-seat Bombardier Q400 aircraft featuring high cruise speed, revolutionary cabin noise-reduction technology and environmentally-friendly engines. As part of the airline's expansion into the U.S., Porter has today taken delivery of two new aircraft to serve the market, bringing the fleet to six. Four additional aircraft are expected for delivery in the next 12 months to broaden the route network from Toronto to destinations such as Boston, Chicago, Washington and Philadelphia.

About Porter Airlines

Porter Airlines Inc. is a regional passenger carrier based at Toronto City Centre Airport. The airline currently serves Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax and Mt. Tremblant. Porter plans to fly to at least 17 short-haul Canadian and U.S. destinations. Visit www.flyporter.com or call (416) 619-8622 or (888) 619-8622 for more information.

Source: Porter Airlines Inc.

CONTACT: Brad Cicero, Porter Airlines, (416) 619-8593,
brad.cicero@flyporter.com; Daniel Hernandez, Edelman, (212) 819-4826,
daniel.hernandez@edelman.com