A special arrival planned for the first ever direct flight between San Francisco and Christchurch, this morning

United Airlines route will be the only direct flight between the South Island and the US, flying three times a week.

Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says flight UA730 - landing at 10.35am - will be welcomed with flair, including a water arch over the top of it as it taxis to the terminal.

A large gathering is also expected in the airport's Planespotters' Park - effectively a paddock with a view behind the airport on Pound Rd - all day.