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Canadian airline starting service from Buffalo to Cancun, Punta Cana

Ashley Hirtzel/WBFO News

Direct international flight to two new destinations will now be offered at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Toronto-based Sunwing Airlines announced Tuesday it will offer non-stop flights to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Cancun, Mexico starting this winter. The trips on the state-of-the-art 187-passenger aircraft are all-inclusive. They include round-trip airfare with a hot meal and and a complimentary glass of champagne and a seven-day stay at a three or four star hotel for around $2,200.

Sunwing Group Vice President Lawrence Elliott says the bulk of travelers expected to use the airline will be from Southern Ontario, but he says he believes many western New Yorkers will take advantage of the flights, as well.

"We have a significant track record of opening new gateways. We believe that we can go after disposable income and, to be cliche, say 'Don't buy the new plasma or high definition TV, go on a holiday.' We want to create new clients out of the area," Elliott said.

Flights will depart from Buffalo Niagara International Airport on Saturdays. Trips to Cancun will begin in January and flights to Punta Cana will start in February.

Elliott called the two cities the "top two sun destinations available to the North American market."

The flights will be seasonal, at least in the beginning, with service ending each May.