Scottish airline Loganair is to launch new services linking Aberdeen to Durham Tees Valley Airport and Norwich in a bid to cash in on the energy industry.
Starting on October 15, the regional airline will provide up to three weekday non-stop flights between the Granite City and Durham Tees Valley Airport (DTVA), with one flight on Sunday.
The move will also restore air links between the north-east and East Anglia after more than two decades by introducing a non-stop flight on six days per week linking DTVA with Norwich.
Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s managing director said: “The increased connectivity by Loganair will bring tremendous benefits for those involved in the offshore energy industries in north-east, Aberdeen and East Anglia which are home to many different companies and individuals working in both the traditional oil and gas market and the burgeoning renewable energy industry.
“As such we are keen to talk to as many of those businesses as possible, with corporate and agency partnerships of great importance to us.”
The announcement was welcomed by Durham Tees Valley chief executive Steve Gill as a “real shot in the arm for the airport—and very good news for the region’s business community”.
Mr Gill added: “We are delighted that Loganair has shown such confidence in Durham Tees Valley, especially at such an important point in the airline’s development as it prepares to operate flights in its own right from next month after 24 years of operating under franchise agreements with other carriers.”
“We certainly hope that this initial announcement of the new services to Norwich and Aberdeen marks that start of a successful—and growing—partnership with Loganair, who have chosen Durham Tees Valley for the launch of their operations in the North East.”
North-east Chamber of Commerce chief executive James Ramsbotham warmly welcomed the Loganair announcement, stressing that strengthening transport links was essential in driving forward the region’s economy.
He added “With both Aberdeen and East Anglia having a strong presence in the oil, gas and renewable energy sectors, there are great opportunities for the many world-class companies in our region and more direct air services are very welcome.
“Loganair’s decision to choose Durham Tees Valley underlines the important role the airport plays in meeting the needs of the business community.”