The first flight has today (22 June) taken off from Teesside International Airport since it reduced operations due to the coronavirus pandemic.
To mark the event, the airport and Eastern Airways have launched a summer sale on 10,000 seats booked between today and 6 July for travel between now and Sunday, 13 September 2020.
The sale will see fares start at £49.99 for all Eastern Airways’ routes from the airport so passengers can pick up a bargain seat whether they are travelling for business or pleasure.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen visited the airport to wave off the first Eastern Airways flight, to Belfast, with Aberdeen also set to take off later today ahead of the introduction of routes to London City Airport and Newquay on 6 July, all of which are included in the sale. The airport is also in discussions with airline operators on the roll-out of further flights in the coming weeks.
Mayor Houchen said: “The past few months have undoubtedly been challenging for the airport as we worked with partners to take the decision to temporarily suspend passenger operations for the safety of our staff and local people.
“But the flights we’ve relaunched today have shown that we can get through these difficult times and come back with a renewed sense of purpose. Thanks to announcements such as our new Newquay route and how the airport is welcoming new names and developing for businesses, we have a stronger offer than ever.
“To encourage people back through our doors, I’m delighted to also be launching our summer sale, so people from across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool can get to destinations like the capital or the fantastic tourist destination of Newquay by air at even better prices.
“Our airport is about much more than just flights, as important as these are. It is a key part of my plan for local jobs for local workers, I’ve always said that the investment that will create the good-quality, well-paid jobs won’t come on a bus, it will come through our airport terminal. As we recover and restore our way of life, this is even more important.
“And I’m keeping up the progress, diggers are already working on a site the size of 270 football pitches building a new business park at our airport. This will put our area on the map as an international destination for new jobs. Plus, global aviation firm Willis Asset Management has chosen our airport is its European maintenance hub for some of the biggest airlines in the world.”
Roger Hage, General Manager Commercial & Operations for Eastern Airways, said: “In our partnership with Teesside Airport, getting the region back flying and connected throughout the UK is what we at Eastern Airways also jointly want to achieve.
“Having provided the careful reintroduction of routes, all the safety steps in the airport and on-board to support a safe flying environment and with the exciting start of London services in July, what better way to reward the loyalty in the North-East by offering a fare promotion to help make the journey even more rewarding.”
Katy Best, Commercial Director at Belfast City Airport said: “We are delighted to today welcome Eastern Airways back to Belfast City Airport.
“The Teesside International Airport route is an important link with the North East of England for Northern Ireland. The return of this service will be welcomed by those travelling to the area for business or to visit friends and relatives.”
In line with Government guidance and for the wellbeing and safety of staff and passengers, Teesside International Airport is currently only open to those planning to travel and airport staff. New health and safety measures have also been put in place for the airport, with six simple steps including hand sanitisation points and face masks now in operation.
Belfast City Airport continues to follow all relevant directives for airports in relation to Covid-19. Measures are in place throughout the terminal to enable social distancing for passengers and staff with signage visible throughout the airport. The airport has also deployed additional staff dedicated to terminal cleansing.
Flight information and more details on safety measures can be found at www.teessideinternational.com
