Silver Airways inaugurates first GSP flight.

Silver Airways, the sixth airline to join Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport's ranks, heralded its first nonstop flight from GSP to Orlando Thursday with a press conference with Silver Airways executives and a water cannon salute on the runway.

Today, the airline launches flights to Jacksonville, Fla., with flights to Tampa, Fla. beginning Saturday.

"We are delighted to connect the vibrant and growing Upstate region of South Carolina with the relaxing beaches, world-class golf courses, and exciting nightlife of our Florida cities," Steve Rossum, CEO for Silver Airways, said in a news release.

Silver Airways will provide the only nonstop service to Orlando International Airport and Tampa International and will be the first airline to offer nonstop service to Jacksonville International Airport from GSP, according to the release. In addition, Silver Airways will provide same-plane direct service through Jacksonville to Fort Lauderdale, providing additional options to reach south Florida.

"We are pleased to welcome a new low-cost airline and service to these popular destinations...