HONOLULU (AP) — The first Allegiant Airlines flight from Las Vegas has arrived in Honolulu, where passengers were greeted with lei, Hawaiian music and a blessing.

The inaugural flight arrived Friday at Honolulu International Airport.

Last year, Las Vegas-based Allegiant Travel Co. received federal certification to fly a bigger plane, which company officials said was a step toward providing service to Hawaii. The Hawaii Tourism Authority has said Allegiant's Hawaii service would help cultivate first-time travelers to the islands.

Honolulu will also welcome a new Allegiant flight from Fresno, Calif., on Sunday.

Tourism officials say both flights are estimated to provide $30 million in visitor spending and $3 million in tax revenue annually for Hawaii.

The airline focuses on connecting small cities with leisure destinations.