The new Emirates flight that arrived in Houston, this week, is bringing in more than just a new international route for the city. The economic impact that this historic new service represents for the local region totals more than $111 million annually, according to conservative estimates by local economists.

Steven Craig, economics professor for the University of Houston, revealed this month an economic impact study that detailed the direct and indirect financial implications of Emirates new flight schedule to the local region. It was this study that placed the dollar figure at above $100 million.

At Monday’s inaugural flight for the thrice-weekly service, airport and airline authorities were celebrating their new joint venture.

Richard M. Vacar, director of the Houston Airport System, called the new service a landmark for the local region. This is the second United States destination for the United Arab Emirates-based carrier.

“We are very pleased to welcome Emirates to our family of international carriers,” said Richard Vacar, director of the Houston Airport System. “This marks our first non-stop passenger service to the Middle East.”

For months, Emirates has been the subject of much discussion in the international media circuit and yesterday was no exception. Dozens of local, state, national and international members of the press were on hand to welcome the inaugural flight alongside Emirates chairman and CEO, Sheikh Ahmed Bid Saeed Al-Maktoum.

After a successful landing, which included a water cannon welcome, the 777-200LR aircraft made its way to gate D7 at George Bush Intercontinental Airport’s Mickey Leland International Terminal, also known as Terminal D. There a ribbon cutting ceremony ensued and afterwards Vacar and Sheikh Ahmed Bid Saeed Al-Maktoum fielded questions from the media.

“We believe there is a strong and growing demand for convenient air travel connections between the US and cities in the Middle East and Indian subcontinent,” said the Emirates chairman and CEO to the press.