News Release
Continental Airlines Wins Tentative Approval for Cleveland-London Flights
HOUSTON, July 31, 1998 -- Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAI.A and CAI.B) today received preliminary approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin nonstop Cleveland-London service. The airline plans to inaugurate daily 757 flights on Feb. 19, 1999.
"We are gratified that the DOT granted our request for expedited approval, and we are thankful to those who advocated our application in this competitive proceeding," said Continental Chairman and CEO Gordon Bethune. "The true champion of this new service has been Ohio U.S. Senator Mike DeWine. From the outset, he has forcefully supported non-stop service to London. Without his determination, it would not have been possible to achieve this positive outcome for Continental and the travelers of Northern Ohio. We also deeply appreciate the endorsement by Mayor Michael White, the City Council, the Growth Association and the Ohio Congressional delegation."
Although the show-cause order issued by the DOT permits parties to rebut the preliminary decision, Continental said it is highly confident that it can earn final approval and commence service less than seven months from now.
The DOT decision put Continental's route ahead of a competing application by American Airlines to fly to London from San Jose, Calif.
Continental is the fifth largest airline in the U.S., offering more than 2,000 departures daily to 125 domestic and 67 international destinations. Operating major hubs in Newark, Houston and Cleveland, Continental is strategically positioned for transcontinental travel, and offers extensive service to Latin America and Europe via its Houston and Newark gateways.