Continental Airlines to fly non-stop to NY

NDTV: "If you're planning on flying to New York anytime soon then you're in luck. Continental Airlines has now launched the first ever direct flights to New York's Newark airport from Delhi.

The flight will take a huge 16 hours westwards and 14 on the way back home. That's a long time to be on one plane, but then, you will be saving more than a couple of hours in transit time.

The cost will be Rs 45,000, depending on fuel prices.

The airline will be using a mammoth Boeing 777, which carries up to 235 economy and 48 business passengers.

Non-stop flight will cut travel time between New York and Delhi by two and a half hours.

Continental's India thrust is part of its strategy to deal with the pressure of a stagnant domestic market, which is causing it to shift focus.

"The domestic market for us is not growing, but we're seeing double digit growth internationally. And so, we're expanding rapidly in that space," said Jeff Smisek, President, Continental Airlines.

But other challenges remain, like rising fuel prices and tough competition. And they will be hoping that their new India flights get a good response. Otherwise, passenger load factors and bottom lines could take a hit. "