New regional air routes offer fast journeys from SW

Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill has welcomed the new domestic routes that will start in 2016 from Newquay and Exeter airports.

The Chancellor announced in last week’s Spending Review that 11 successful bidders across the UK had been awarded support from the UK Government’s Regional Air Connectivity Fund. The new flights will offer fast journey times to Leeds-Bradford and Norwich.

Robert Goodwill said: “Newquay and Exeter airports are vital engines for South West’s economy, connecting the UK and creating opportunities. That is why the UK Government backs new South West air routes, with our investment benefiting hardworking people across the country.”

The start-up aid bidding competition was open to airports with fewer than five million passengers per year and allows air routes that are not currently commercially viable today to be introduced early, giving time for airlines to build passenger numbers and deliver a more sustainable service. It is anticipated that flights will begin from Spring 2016.

Start-up aid of up to £7 million is being provided through the Regional Air Connectivity Fund. The fund already supports strategic routes to London from Newquay and Dundee.

The new routes, Newquay to Leed-Bradford and Exeter to Norwich, will be operated by Flybe.