CONTINENTAL TO INCREASE FLIGHTS ON HOUSTON-SAO PAULO ROUTE

New Boeing 767's replace DC-10's

Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL and CAL.A) this week is beginning enhancements to its Brazil service by using more all-new Boeing widebody jets and increasing flights.

"As our Brazil service has grown to encompass three major cities -- Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte -- we have aimed to be the best choice for travelers to South America's largest country," said a spokesperson. "By introducing new aircraft and optimizing our schedules, we are adding even more value to our award-winning service."

This month Continental is switching to new Boeing 767-200 aircraft for all flights on the Houston-Sao Paulo route. The route has been flown with a DC-10 previously, and the change is part of Continental's entire replacement of the DC-10 fleet.

Responding to market demand, Continental will increase frequency on the Houston-Sao Paulo route from four times to seven times per week, effective March 2.

The Houston-Sao Paulo flight also provides convenient onward service via Continental to Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte. Effective March 2, the Houston-Sao Paulo aircraft continues to Rio de Janeiro four times per week, with connecting service three times per week.

Also effective March 2, Continental will replace DC-10s with the new 767-400 on the New York-Sao Paulo route. The 767-400 is already in use on New York-Rio de Janeiro.

Daily service to Belo Horizonte is provided on a one-stop basis via Sao Paulo.