PORTLAND (AP) – Flights that were supposed to begin Monday between Maine and Nova Scotia have been delayed pending regulatory approval.

Starlink Aviation’s Brenda Libby said Sunday the Montreal-based airline is awaiting final approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin the service. She says the airline hopes to receive necessary approval by Feb. 16.

A news conference celebrating the international air service is still scheduled for Monday at the Portland International Jetport.

Portland Mayor Jill Duson is to appear at a news conference before boarding a flight from Portland to Yarmouth and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Libby says the flight will be operated as a charter, and there will be no paying passengers.