GREATER numbers of North-East flights to a major hub could soon move a step closer to reality after airport bosses revealed plans to take advantage of EU changes.

Heathrow wants the Government to ring-fence slots for domestic services amid an expansion led by a third runway.

Bosses say the changes will be made possible by Brexit, since the airport will be able to cast off regulations designed to stop discrimination against EU member states.

They added such action would raise potential for new flights from the North- East, with Newcastle Airport already running services between the two bases and Durham Tees Valley Airport (DTVA) on a provisional list.

The Department for Transport last year started consultation on Heathrow’s runway after approving the proposals, with Transport Secretary Chris Grayling telling The Northern Echo at the time that DTVA’s flights could be in operation by 2030.

Referring to its domestic blueprint, Emma Gilthorpe, Heathrow’s executive director for expansion, said Government backing for ring-fenced flights would significantly improve domestic travel links and help businesses keen to strengthen trade relationships.

She said: “We’ve always been clear that an expanded Heathrow must deliver for all of Britain and that’s why we’re urging the Government to back our proposal to ring-fence slots at an expanded Heathrow for domestic use.

“It is an opportunity now possible because Britain is leaving the EU.

“Every corner of our country should be able to benefit from the growth and trade that stems from links to the nation’s hub airport.

“We look forward to working alongside ministers, our airlines and stakeholders on the details of this exciting proposal to boost Britain’s domestic connectivity.”

The plans have received support from the North East England Chamber of Commerce, with officials saying they would help maintain the region’s exporting prowess and its consistently positive balance of trade.

Jonathan Walker, head of policy and campaigns, said: “Access to the country’s international hub airport is vital for businesses across the North-East.

“Protecting and expanding connections to Heathrow will ensure our businesses can reach markets and opportunities around the world.”

Speaking to The Northern Echo last year, Steve Gill, DTVA chief executive, said the airport’s role in an expanded Heathrow would give holidaymakers and business leaders scope to connect to international hubs with greater ease.

Any rekindling of the route would deliver a major fillip for DTVA, which has relied heavily on KLM’s Aberdeen and Amsterdam flights since BMI withdrew its Heathrow service in 2009.

Mr Gill added: “We look forward to working with Heathrow and airline partners to explore the opportunities offered by the expansion programme.

“A project of this kind will take considerable time, but I am sure areas such as the Tees Valley will hope progress on increasing regional connectivity can move forward as quickly as possible.”

Heathrow’s new runway could be operational around 2025.

Gatwick Airport, run by Bishop Auckland-born boss Stewart Wingate, had long argued against Heathrow’s expansion, saying its plans for a second runway would have been cheaper and caused less environmental damage.