Abuja — Arik Air on Sunday night recorded its maiden flight to New York from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said the flight departed the airport at about 11 p.m. to the United States.

The airline's Head of Media, Mr Adebanji Ola,told NAN that its management was highly excited with the achievement, coming 10 years after the defunct Nigeria Airways stopped direct flight services to the U.S.

"The maiden flight was unique. Our passengers were happy to fly out of the airport, using Arik Air," he said.

He quoted the airline's Managing Director, Mr Jason Holt, as expressing satisfaction with the maiden flight operation.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Damuren, also commended the airline for the successful maiden flight to New York.

The Airport Manager, Mr Edward Olalerin, said it was delightful that the airline had started operations to the U.S." (NAN).