Sen. Daniel Inouye says he’s “very pleased” by the news that Hawaiian Airlines will introduce a nonstop daily flight between Honolulu and New York City in June.

“The opportunities this new route creates for Hawaii residents are endless and our visitor industry will expand and become more accessible to those U.S. residents who live farthest from Hawaii,” Inouye said in a statement. “Hawaiian Airlines has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the air travel experience for Hawaii residents and their work is to be commended.”

Inouye said that the new route, along with service to Asia, Australia and the other parts of the U.S., means Hawaiian Airlines is “fast becoming a leading global carrier.”