A new flight operates by UPS from the US to Dublin and the UK’s East Midlands Airport has begun operations.

The flight originates from the distribution company’s Worldport air hub in Louisville, Kentucky.

On its return to the US it will be carrying healthcare and small package goods between the three countries.

UPS said the flight shows UPS’s commitment to the trade lane between the US and the UK.

The Boeing 767 flight operates every weekday and offering new opportunities for transatlantic business for UK and Irish companies operating in the US.

Export of goods to the US reached £168.3bn in 2022, with total UK exports accounting for 16.3% of trade.

Rick Fletcher, President, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, said: “This investment gives our customers in the UK and Ireland more choice and convenience when finding new markets. Our air network is a crucial tool for shippers, especially small and medium-sized businesses, that are looking to grow internationally.”

UPS said it is making significant investment in its capabilities within the UK and Ireland and recently opened a new sortation and delivery centre in Telford.

Its Dublin healthcare facility is also expected to open in early 2024.