Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown has deemed the new US Airways flight between Bermuda and Florida a roaring success - and said he hoped it continued year-round.

The flight, the Island's only direct Florida service, was initiated in June for a summer season trial-run ending on August 30, following an agreement between the Washington-based airline and Government.

But Dr. Brown said the service had taken off and he hoped arrangements could be made to make it a permanent fixture.

He said: "For the month of August alone, these flights are enjoying a stellar 95 percent average load factor, which is a practically unheard of accomplishment for a new flight just launched a few short weeks ago."