If you haven’t heard, United Airlines now offers seasonal direct flights from Newark (EWR) to Madeira (FNC)! The service kicked off in early June with an exciting, monumental inaugural flight, and I was lucky enough to be part of it.

After a quick drive to EWR from Bucks County, I arrived at the airport with enough time to grab a snack and check out the fun happening at our departure gate. I could tell which one was our gate right away because it was decked out with Madeira-themed decorations and music. You could feel how excited the crew and the passengers were.

Once it got closer to our departure time, there was a quick presentation from United executives, during which they talked about how much this new destination means to them and all the hard work that went into planning it. After the small presentation, the pilots of the flight, flight attendants, ground crew and all other employees involved were invited up for a special ribbon cutting ceremony. It was very special.

As we were boarding the plane, the music continued to play, and we were each given a special pin with both the American flag and the Madeiran flag. When we got to our seats, we were greeted by a nice welcome letter, a Madeira Island x United poster and a Madeira x United key chain.

Since it was an overnight flight and we had a full day of fun ahead of us on the island, I tried my best to get as much sleep as possible, although I did make sure I was awake for the food service.

The flight was smooth, and the landing was great. As we were getting off the plane in Madeira, we were greeted by smiling faces from airport employees and even the local news — which I later found out I was actually on. As we were going through customs, we were handed a welcome gift with a canvas bag and a straw Madeira hat.

I still can’t believe I got to be part of an exciting accomplishment from United and Madeira. Now that it’s easier to get to Madeira from the United States, I highly recommend taking a trip there. I can’t wait to go back!

— Mary Melnick, social media & editorial manager