LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – After nearly two years of tight restrictions, U.S. borders are open to vaccinated, COVID-negative travelers.
And that means that international flights are flying again at McCarran International Airport.
A Virgin Atlantic flight was the first to touch down today.
“We waited 20 months for this day,” said Rosemary Vassiliadis, director of aviation.
“Our last flight was twenty months ago. Virgin was our last flight from this airport in March 2020, ”said Vassiliadis.
And travelers were greeted with a fabulous welcome to Las Vegas.
Some were here to play. Others enjoyed the opportunity to see their families again after such a long time.
(Sally Jaramillo / 8NewsNow)
(Sally Jaramillo / 8NewsNow)
“It’s wonderful for Las Vegas. It’s the essence of our economy, and McCarran… the airport is the gateway to it, ”said Vassiliadis.
She said the demand for flies was high.
“We’re looking very, very high at Virgin so far,” she said.
“The number of passengers and the number of seats sold are well above average,” said Vassiliadis.
Both Rosemary and Andrew Allison are from Scotland, and they said they were excited to see their sons again after such a long separation.
“I’ve been here for almost two years so it’s different. Exciting, ”said Rosemary Allison.
“Relax and forget all the worries of coming here … getting vaccines, getting forms and getting to the airport,” said Andrew Allison.
They said it was a bit of a hassle getting the right forms. But it all worked out and now … a sense of relief.
What’s next?
“We know that British Air will also be coming from London,” said Vassiliadis. “But they start with the daily service.”
“That already shows the trust this destination has. We already heard about Copa Latin America. KLM, I’m from Amsterdam. Another goal from Europe will come shortly after the new year, ”said Vassiliadis.
Just to prove that everyone needs a slice of Las Vegas.
The Virgin Atlantic flight carried 240 passengers and reported no problems.
