New flights for airport
NEWCASTLE TO MUNICH ROUTE REVEALED
This new route demonstrates a strong vote of confidence in our region
James Ramsbotham
BUSINESS leaders have welcomed new flights from Newcastle Airport that will link the region to one of Germany’s largest cities.
A Lufthansa service from Newcastle to Munich will start next February, while a new service has also been announced to London Southend, as well as a new Sunday flight to Cardiff.
The new Munich service will operate six days a week, providing North East businesses with 130 onward connections throughout Europe.
James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East England Chamber of Commerce, said: “We constantly hear from our members that great connections are essential to their success – so this new route to Munich is fantastic news.
“Our region exports more to Europe than any other in the UK. Greater accessibility to the German marketplace is a tremendous boost for both goods and services, as well as our tourism economy.
“With the uncertainties of Brexit, this new route demonstrates a strong vote of confidence in our region and I encourage every business to maximise this opportunity. I have every confidence these flights will be extremely successful.”
Vincent Efferoth, managing director at North East alcoholic tea company Noveltea – which recently won major investment from the German version of the Dragons’ Den TV show – added: “I fly regularly for business, and it is very convenient for me to go from Newcastle Airport.
“The new direct flights with Lufthansa will be more time efficient for the company and there will be a much lower risk of suffering from any delays.
“As my business partner is based in Munich, the new direct route will absolutely improve the accessibility for us to travel from Newcastle Airport.” Meanwhile, Flybe has announced that a new route between Newcastle and Southend will be part of its summer 2020 schedule. Leon McQuaid, head of aviation development at Newcastle International Airport, said: “This new route to London Southend with Flybe is excellent news for both our business and leisure passengers.
“It will not only provide a new connection to Central London and the surrounding area, but also encourage inbound tourist traffic into the region – contributing to the local economy.” Flybe has also announced a new Sunday service between Newcastle and Cardiff, which starts in January.