March 16, 2007: In a major India-specific decision, Continental has announced that it will begin flying to Mumbai from Newark starting this autumn season. The airline has accepted the Indian community’s request for a new airline on the route. It already operates a nonstop service between its New York-area hub and Delhi.

With Mumbai being the largest trans-Atlantic market not currently served by Continental, the Houston-based carrier now will offers significant opportunities for growth in the future with the new flight. Meanwhile, as the news of the announcement came in, the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston hailed the new service to India because it said it will help open up additional business opportunities and provide more convenient travel options from Houston.

According to a report, Continental has been expanding internationally but has picked up the pace during the past few years as domestic competition has intensified. Continental's initial service to India had helped a rise in demand for visas. In 2006, 30 percent more visas have been issued by the Indian consulate than the previous year, with business visas increasing as much as 60 percent, it said.

The airline's schedule is designed to accommodate business travelers. The new service, which is set to begin October 30, is however subject to government approval. A variety of companies in the energy, medical and technology industries are expected to take advantage of the new service.

As of now, no nonstop air service is available from Houston to India, although Continental has indicated it will consider it when it has the aircraft able to make the long trip. Continental has a number of jets on order, including the Boeing 787.

Meanwhile anther report said that Continental may have competition to Mumbai from Delta Air Lines, the only other US carrier that has service to Mumbai.