Cornwall's air link to London to continue

Cornwall's only year-round air link to London is safe for another four years.

The Government and Cornwall Council announced yesterday (October 1st) that direct flights between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick will continue, backed by funding from both organisations.

Flybe will operate three return flights on weekdays and two per day at weekends.

The news follows the success of the previous route offered by Flybe, which saw demand almost double over three years. Gatwick flights now account for 40% of all passengers using Newquay airport.

Cornwall Council Cabinet portfolio holder for transport Geoff Brown said: “Today’s announcement is good news for Cornwall. If this service was lost, £50 million could be wiped from Cornwall’s economy with the potential loss of airport and other jobs. Once again securing the direct service is a boost for Cornwall’s communities, businesses and the economy. It will enable Cornwall to do business with the rest of the world – and the rest of the world to do business with Cornwall.”

Isles of Scilly Skybus flies daily to Newquay, allowing islanders to connect with destinations including Edinburgh and Dublin, as well as airports in Spain, Portugal and Germany.