LOGANAIR resumes passenger flights from Newcastle today, re-establishing non-stop services to Aberdeen.

It marks the Glasgow-based airline’s first step to restoring full services at Newcastle International Airport since the coronavirus outbreak lockdown.

The first Newcastle to Aberdeeen flight takes off at 6.10pm, with flights to Southampton recommencing from Monday June 15 and those to Exeter from Monday July 20.

It is hoped the Newcastle to Stavanger service will re-start in early August, with the exact date to be confirmed once the duration of incoming passenger quarantine and border restrictions becomes clearer.

The Aberdeen route will be in daily service during June and increases to twice-a-day from Monday July 6.

On the Southampton route a daily service will be in place from June 15, increasing to a double daily from July 6, while Exeter flights will fly five times per week.

Loganair employs 20 Newcastle-based pilots and cabin crew to fly its local services.

It claims to have maintained more services than any other UK passenger airline during the crisis, providing essential links on its key lifeline routes to the Scottish islands, during April and May.

All flights will be operated under the Safe Steps to Healthy Flying protocols announced recently by Loganair, the first UK airline to set out detailed plans on customer safety while Covid-19 remains present.

They mirror guidance later announced by the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Loganair chief executive Jonathan Hinkles said: “With many businesses turning their thoughts to re-starting work after the pandemic, the UK’s regional air connectivity will be more important than ever.

“For the sake of the recovery of the UK economy, we must enable key workers across oil and gas, construction, service and healthcare sectors to travel swiftly, comfortably and safely throughout the country.

“As well as providing travel guidance on which businesses can plan, we believe today’s announcement will also lend confidence to people looking forward to visiting families and friends once social restrictions permit.”

Loganair’s travel safety advice is available on its website, where customers can also check for service updates.