Commuters from the north-east of England will be able to reach the heart of London and its transport connections with ease from Monday 7 January, which sees the official launch of a double-daily direct air service to London City Airport from Newcastle with Flybe.
Eastern Airways, a franchise partner of Flybe, now operates a morning and evening peak service taking just 70-minutes flight time each-way direct into London City Airport.
This gives Newcastle Airport a second and faster, more convenient London travel option for those heading to the City or Central London.
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR), which is adjacent to London City Airport, provides convenient public transport links, with trains leaving every 8-15 minutes to Canning Town (7 minutes journey time) and Bank (21 minutes journey time) for connections onto the wider London Underground.
With business-focused morning and evening departures at 8:05am and 5.50pm, returning at 9:45am and 7.30pm on weekdays, and a single Sunday evening service, the time saving compared to rail or road will meet the needs of many north-east commuters.
This is achievable by arriving into London City Airport, which is the only London airport conveniently located close to the heart of the capital.
Roger Hage, Eastern Airways’ General Manager Commercial & Operations, said: “We are very pleased to launch this new direct central London air service on behalf of Flybe, adding to their expanding London City network and to the Aberdeen – London City service we already operate.
“We believe it’s vital for major UK cities to have direct fast convenient air links between the regions and City of London. This route provides a direct link for our customers from Newcastle and the north east region, from where they can quickly access Canary Wharf, the City of London and the underground network with ease, helping business and leisure travellers alike.”
Richard Knight, Chief Operating Officer at Newcastle Airport, said: “For a number of years, we have received countless requests for a direct route into the heart of London – so we are thrilled to be launching this service for both business and leisure passengers.
“With a flight time of just over an hour, complementary on-board service and the airport’s low security-queuing times, the North East travelling public will be able to access the London market quickly and efficiently thanks to the new route from Flybe.
“We are very excited to see the impact this service has on our region and urge the North East to support the route.”
Peter Downes, Aviation Director at London City Airport (LCY), said: “Journeys between the north east and central London are now easier and faster than ever, thanks to the new service operated by Eastern Airways. The convenience of London City Airport, just a few miles from major attractions and business districts, will appeal to all types of traveller, and we’re thrilled that the first service touches down imminently.
“As the ninth domestic route to join our route network, as part of existing Aberdeen operations, London City continues to ensure the UK regions are connected straight into capital, and vice versa.”
Flights are now on sale up to winter 2019. Fares start from £79.99 one way, inclusive of taxes and charges, and are bookable at flybe.com
On board Eastern Airways operated flights, passengers are offered a full range of complimentary hot and cold drinks, including a bar service and snacks. Fast track security is offered to all Eastern Airways customers travelling through Newcastle Airport into the departures lounge. Regular customers can also benefit from discounted route passes offering savings of up to 35%.
