Flybe announces new Newquay to London Gatwick service

Flybe today announced its plans for substantial growth at London Gatwick airport in the Summer Season of 2009, offering great news for Newquay and the South West with the launch of the region’s only non-stop multi frequency route between Newquay and the UK Capital.

The direct route, effective 15th February 2009, will operate three times a day weekdays, daily on Saturdays and twice daily on Sundays, providing passengers with a convenient and affordable service to this key UK destination. Flights can be booked from today at flybe.com with fares starting at just £29.99 one way including taxes and airport charges.

Flybe has grown rapidly at London Gatwick over the last year, adding crucial business services such as Aberdeen and Newcastle to the point where it is now the third largest carrier at the airport. Flybe’s decision to launch a new Newquay service to London Gatwick cements its position as the fastest growing airline at the airport and reaffirms its ability to grow even in challenging economic times.

Mike Rutter, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer, says: “It’s been a difficult couple of weeks for Newquay Cornwall Airport but Flybe’s decision today is a vote of confidence not only in the county but in the airport’s team. Other airlines may walk away from Cornwall but Flybe is here for the long-term.

“We realise the importance of maintaining affordable choices with a convenient multi frequency schedule on this key business route. Our new direct Newquay to London Gatwick service, the only one available to South West travelers and £10 cheaper than Air South West, demonstrates our commitment to the region and to supporting the local economy through the development of business and leisure travel options.”

Economic Portfolio Holder at Cornwall County Council, Andrew Mitchell, comments: “We are very pleased at this announcement and the commitment given to Newquay Cornwall Airport today by Flybe. It supports our belief that the future of the airport is bright and, together with Flybe and our other airlines, we will continue to play an important role in the development of airline passenger services in the South West.”

Not only does Flybe’s new service offer the most affordable fares between Newquay and London Gatwick but passengers travelling the route can also benefit from the many innovations that Flybe has on offer as an industry leader.

The airline recently opened its stylish new dedicated Executive Lounge at London Gatwick’s South Terminal, and its generous Rewards4all frequent flyer loyalty programme scheme offers anyone who travels with Flybe the ability to earn points that are redeemable against future flights.

Furthermore, those signing up for Flybe’s Spend & Fly MasterCard will – upon their first retail transaction no matter what the value - automatically receive one free return flight anywhere on the Flybe network. What’s even better news is that the credit card is also integrated with the Rewards4all scheme.

In recent years, Flybe has also invested more than $3-billion in new aircraft to make its fleet one of the youngest and most environmentally sensitive in the world.

Mr. Rutter continues: “We’re really excited about the start of our new London Gatwick route. It’s a win-win for everyone! Not only can customers take advantage of the most affordable fares between Newquay and London Gatwick but can also book with confidence that they are travelling with the largest regional airline in Europe that has recently announced record profits. By choosing to fly with us they also benefit from the most comprehensive value add-ons. We would advise people to book early now on flybe.com to take advantage of the lowest possible fares.”

Schedule

Flights from Newquay to London Gatwick will operate three-times-a-day Monday to Friday; daily on a Saturday and twice daily on Sunday from 15th February 2009.

Flights on sale now with fares from £29.99 one-way, including all taxes and airport charges.