HAMILTON — Swoop celebrated its three new routes to Florida out of Hamilton yesterday with an official launch party attended by media, agents and industry partners.

After receiving its final approval to operate to the U.S., the low-cost airline launched its full schedule of U.S.-bound flights on Oct. 27 following a slight delay. The new routes fly out of Hamilton, ON, Abbotsford, B.C., and Edmonton, AB to Las Vegas, Phoenix and three Florida hotspots: Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Tampa Bay.

To help celebrate the new flights, representatives from VISIT FLORIDA, Visit Orlando, Visit Tampa Bay, Experience Kissimmee and Greater Fort Lauderdale were on hand to welcome guests and promote the destination. According to Sana Keller of Pulse Communications, which represents VISIT FLORIDA, the new flights are expected to drive more Southwestern Ontario traffic to the Sunshine State.

“Canada is the top country for international visitation to Florida, which is why we’re here tonight in partnership with Swoop and our destination partners promoting Swoop’s new flights to Florida,” she tells Travelweek. “We are so excited to have these new flights, which will help promote Florida!”

Keller also added that VISIT FLORIDA is looking forward to another ‘Moments of Sunshine’ campaign, which kicks off in January 2019. The campaign will include advertising, social media, an experiential activation, public relations initiatives, a partnership with Expedia and much more.

“Be on the lookout for these ‘Moments of Sunshine’ throughout the coldest months ahead,” she said.

For more information go to visitflorida.com and flyswoop.com.