Flybe 'saves' Newcastle-Gatwick service

Flybe has announced that it will launch new flights from Newcastle Airport to London Gatwick this year, providing what it described as a "lifeline service".

In addition to this route, which will open on March 30th, the carrier will commence flights from Newcastle to Aberdeen Airport on the same date and from the north-east to Rennes in France on May 24th.

Flybe described the connection between Newcastle and Gatwick Airport as a "key business route" and said that it will be opening a new business-class lounge at the north-east hub.

Mike Rutter, the airline's chief commercial officer, said: "We recognise the strategic importance of this key route to the capital and are pleased to be in a position to step in and save this lifeline service for the people of Newcastle and the north-east.

"Indeed, we purchased these Gatwick slots in the teeth of opposition from other carriers who wanted to use those slots to serve European destinations, not Newcastle."

Dave Laws, chief executive of Newcastle Airport, welcomed the commitment that Flybe has shown to the north-east and described the airline's plans for further route development in 2008 as "excellent news".