Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, has today reinforced its commitment to Cornwall following an agreement reached with Cornwall Council under a redefined Public Service Obligation (PSO) to replace the 78-seat Q400 currently operating on its popular service between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick airports, with a 118-seat Embraer jet aircraft, effective from the end of March 2016.

Saad Hammad, CEO, Flybe said: "Flybe offers a better alternative to rail or road in providing time-saving business travel for its regional customers. So I am absolutely delighted we will be upgrading capacity with a larger, slightly faster aircraft starting next summer on the service we operate between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick. Flybe recognises the importance of this service to the Cornish economy and how vital it is for those wanting to travel to and from Cornwall to have access to a fast, reliable and affordable air link to the Capital as well as opportunities for onward connections.

“I would like to thank Cornwall Council and Cornwall Airport Newquay for their support in making this much needed upgrade a reality, enabling us to accommodate the much increased passenger demand on this lifeline route.

“The connection between Newquay and Gatwick is a hugely important link for both the business community and the tourism sector. The airport is already a brilliant resource for Cornwall and I hope this announcement will help the airport build on its successes.”

Al Titterington, Managing Director Cornwall Airport Newquay added: “The introduction of the E195 is great news for the airport. Flybe’s London-Gatwick service has grown significantly in the last few years and the additional 40 seats per flight will allow this to continue. The airport has had double digit growth for the last couple of years and increased capacity on the E195 will ensure that passenger numbers grow significantly again next year.”