An airline has launched a new non-stop flight between Edinburgh and Philadelphia.

From today, the scheduled service will be operated daily by US Airways until October.

It is the first time the route has been served from the Scottish capital.

The outward journey departs at 10:40am and arrives in the American city at 12:50pm (local time). Return flights will depart at 8:50pm and arrive in Edinburgh at 8:40am local time.

Sir John Elvidge, chairman of Edinburgh Airport, said: "We're delighted to welcome US Airways into the Edinburgh Airport family and congratulate them on their inaugural flight to Philadelphia.

"This new daily service, the first of its kind from Edinburgh, marks the start of a new partnership with US Airways and one we're confident will be hugely popular with passengers on both sides of the Atlantic.

"This summer will also be a hugely exciting time to visit Scotland, with the Ryder Cup and Homecoming likely to draw huge numbers of American visitors."

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "This new service will help build stronger business and tourism links between the two countries by reducing the need for travellers to take extra connecting flights via London or the continent, making Scotland an even more attractive destination."