BMI has announced the launch of a twice-daily service from Newcastle International to Brussels International, the only direct flight to link the two cities.

Operated by a 49-seater Embraer jet aircraft, the new route starting on March 3, 2014 will offer business and leisure travellers the opportunity to reach the Belgian capital in just 75 minutes, from £69.99 per person including taxes* one way.

BMI regional offers a full in-flight service including at-seat meals and full bar selection in addition to 20kg of checked baggage per person and thirty minute check-in at both airports. The carrier was named Silver Airline of the Year at the annual European Regions Airline Association (ERA) awards in Austria this month.

“This is our first route from Newcastle International and we’re delighted to provide the only direct flight for travellers from the North-East to the Belgian capital,” said Cathal O’Connell, chief executive at bmi regional.

“This year we’ve launched over a dozen new routes from British airports and our new Newcastle to Brussels service opens up opportunities for those travelling for business and for pleasure.”

Chris Sanders, aviation development director at Newcastle International Airport, said: “We’re delighted with the announcement that bmi regional will be operating a new Brussels service from March 2014. The route is a key hub both for business and leisure travellers and one we are sure will be very popular.”

Councillir Iain Malcolm, Leader of South Tyneside Council and Leader of the LA7 shareholders, the airport's co-owners, said: “The launch of bmi’s Newcastle to Brussels service is great news for the regional economy. Connectivity is vital to enable businesses to grow and prosper and we’re sure that the regional business community will be thrilled with this announcement.”

Charles Bragg, research and development director, P&G UK & Ireland, said: "P&G considers flights from Newcastle to Brussels as a vital transport link between our European Innovation centres in these cities and to enable engagement with the EU, so we are delighted about the announcement of regular flights. Good transport links are an important consideration for P&G's investment in the North-East.”

Belgian travellers with also benefit, said Arnaud Feist, chief executive at Brussels Airport Company: “Newcastle has been a very important missing link in our extensive network to the UK.

"We are very pleased that bmi regional, multiple winner of the Brussels Airport punctuality award for regional airlines and a long term business partner for Brussels Airport, will commence direct flights to the Capital of Europe.”

Brussels is renowned for its Grand Place - an UNESCO World Heritage Site - and other architectural sights including the futuristic Atomium and traditional Flemish houses in addition to its vibrant arts and food districts. Home to the Brussels Stock Exchange, the city serves as a centre of administration for the European Union and a gateway to other cities including Antwerp, Ghent and Maastricht.

Newcastle International is the third British airport to be linked to Brussels by bmi regional, which operates services from East Midlands and Edinburgh.  The airline became independent from BMI in June 2012 and has pursued a sustainable expansion strategy whilst retaining full in-flight service and the highest customer service standards.

*Seats go on sale online in the coming days: www.bmiregional.com.