Porter Airlines is providing more options for its popular Orlando-Melbourne, Fla., service by adding non-stop flights from Ottawa and Windsor. These are Porter's first U.S. flights from airports outside of its main base at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (BBTCA).

Porter Airlines is providing more options for its popular Orlando-Melbourne, Fla., service by adding non-stop flights from Ottawa and Windsor. These are Porter’s first U.S. flights from airports outside of its main base at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. (CNW Group/Porter Airlines Inc.)

The seasonal weekly service operates from Dec. 16 to March 31, for Ottawa and Windsor, and until April 7 for Toronto. Service from Toronto includes twice weekly flights during peak periods, plus three times weekly for March Break. Complete schedule and booking options are now available at www.flyporter.com.

"This is Porter's third year flying to Orlando-Melbourne," said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. "Adding Ottawa and Windsor to the popular Toronto route means that more people can visit this area of Florida by leaving directly from their own communities."

Located just 20 minutes from Port Canaveral – the world's second largest cruise port – 30 minutes from Kennedy Space Center and less than 10 minutes from the beach, Orlando-Melbourne is an ideal Sunshine State destination. Orlando's major attractions, including theme parks, are within an hour's drive.

"Porter Airlines' passengers have discovered the convenience of door to shore non-stop flights to the beachside of Orlando and all that our area of Florida offers," said Greg Donovan, A.A.E., executive director of Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB). "We can't wait to greet them all at our upgraded customs facility and its fast, high-tech, stress-free entry into the United States. Ottawans and Windsorites are in for a treat and we are grateful to Porter for the opportunity to grow with this incredible airline."

Porter provides a premium experience for all passengers, including leather seats, complimentary wine and beer onboard, and airport lounge access. Its "flying refined" philosophy has helped the airline win numerous global awards.

"We are absolutely delighted Porter Airlines is launching non-stop seasonal flights from Windsor to Orlando Melbourne International Airport in Florida," said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. "And we are honoured Windsor has been chosen as one of the first cities outside of Toronto from which Porter will fly direct to Florida. Our market research shows Florida is by far Windsor's number one destination and this new Porter route will help satisfy a huge demand in our community."

"We're thrilled to see Porter Airline's continued growth at YOW," said Mark Laroche, Ottawa International Airport Authority president and CEO. "What makes this route exciting is that it's Porter's first U.S. destination from our airport, and it offers Ottawa-Gatineau residents a new entry point into the highly desirable Orlando area."

Porter Escapes offers a range of packages including flights, hotels and attractions in Orlando-Melbourne and the surrounding area. Florida Everglades and the Orlando Explorer Pass are some of the attractions available to complete the package. Detailed information is available at www.porterescapes.com.