EASTERN Airways launched its new non-stop service from Belfast City Airport to Newcastle yesterday – less than six months after the airline first entered the local market.

The UK regional airline - which in March re-established Northern Ireland's only air link to the Isle of Man after Citywing's liquidation - will operate a daily weekday service to the north east of England.

The carrier's regional commercial manager Andy Mathieson said: “We're thrilled to be linking these busy centres of industry as well as opening up access to other parts of Northern Ireland and the north east of England, including Northumberland, Sunderland and Teesside. The short flight and weekday departures make this option particularly convenient for business travellers.”

Ellie McGimpsey, aviation development manager at George Best Belfast City Airport, said: “Newcastle has always been a popular destination for passengers and we're delighted Eastern Airways has recognised the market potential through the introduction of this new route.”