UK airline and Flybe franchise partner, Eastern Airways, is expanding its UK network by opening a base at Teesside International Airport in North-East England, this summer.
Three aircraft will be based at the Teesside hub operating routes to destinations including: London City, Southampton, Dublin International, Belfast City, Cardiff and Isle of Man. These connections are expected to all be underway by the end of May this year.
The project aims to increase the airline’s presence at the airport with the addition of 185,000 seats per year. Eastern’s existing service from Teesside to Aberdeen Dyce will also see an increase in frequency.
Roger Hage, Eastern Airways’ General Manager Commercial & Operations, described the development as “a significant strategic partnership for both the airline and airport.” The expansion of routes operating from Teesside will also mean that passengers will benefit from a number of onward connections in the wider flybe network.
“Eastern Airways is one of the longest-serving airlines to fly from Teesside International serving the critical corporate oil and gas market with flights to Aberdeen,” added Tony Burgess, Managing Director of Eastern Airways. “We’re delighted to now be strengthening our ties with the airport and branching out to bring enhanced connectivity to some new city destinations for business and leisure travellers.”
An additional engineering base will be built at the airport, ensuring the reliability of the aircraft that will operate the new routes. The airline also stated that it is looking at how it can continue developments to extend networks for all regions.
Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen claimed that the area has seen a demand for the return of direct flight to London. He said, “For too long, we’ve lacked this most basic connection, which is why I’m delighted to announce today’s new services which will bring the Tees Valley even closer to the capital with a twice-daily service. This isn’t job done, this is the next stage in our 10-year rescue plan to secure the future of Teesside International.” He continues to announce that the new base is the first step of the airport’s partnership with Eastern Airways to “expand and increase flights in the future”.
