An air link between Leeds/Bradford and London is to be preserved after Bmi announced the withdrawal of flights to Heathrow.
Flybe is to maintain the connection after a short interruption this summer with a new service between the Yorkshire airport and Gatwick.
The service will run three times a day using Bombardier Q400 aircraft from June 29.
Fares starting at £24.99 one way including taxes and charges go on sale today (Monday).
Up to 130 job in Yorkshire will be created plus 20 direct Flybe jobs at Gatwick, according to the regional carrier.
Chaif commercial officer Mike Rutter said: “Air services from London Gatwick to Leeds Bradford are of great strategic importance to Yorkshire and the North in general and we’re delighted to be able to fill the gap and introduce a service to London so soon after Bmi abandoned their service.
“The new service demonstrates Flybe’s commitment to the region, continuing to help the local economy through the development of affordable and convenient business and leisure travel options.
“We stepped in to provide airlinks to London when other operators walked away from Newcastle and Aberdeen and are now getting a bit of a reputation as the airline that comes to the rescue of the regions.”
Tony Hallwood, Leeds/Bradford airport’s commercial director said:
“This is fantastic news for the city of Leeds and the West Yorkshire region.
“This is fantastic news for the city of Leeds and the West Yorkshire region.
“We welcome the introduction of Flybe services to London Gatwick which will once again provide a valuable air link to the capital for business and leisure travellers.
“We also look forward to working with our regional tourism partners to encourage an increase in the number of visitors to the Yorkshire region from London and the South East.”
by Phil Davies
