The route between Belfast International Airport and Newark is the only direct flight between Northern Ireland and the US, however, it did not operate between January and March this year. There will now be three flights a week in that period in 2016.
Mr Lyttle said the return of the regular flight was a vote of confidence for Northern Ireland.
“The commitment to the restoration of this flight is a longed for move. Maintaining this route is crucial to our economy and we need to protect the Belfast – America link.
“I have no doubt this will be a successful move, and attract further investment and tourism to our shores.”