THE first flight took off from Teesside International Airport today (Monday) since it reduced operations due to the coronavirus pandemic.

To mark the event, the airport and Eastern Airways have launched a summer sale on 10,000 seats booked between today and July 6 for travel between now and Sunday, September 13.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen visited the airport to wave off the first Eastern Airways flight, to Belfast, with Aberdeen also taking off later in the day ahead of the introduction of routes to London City Airport and Newquay on July 6, all of which are included in the sale.

The airport is also in discussions with airline operators on the roll-out of further flights in the coming weeks.

Mayor Houchen said: “The past few months have undoubtedly been challenging for the airport as we worked with partners to take the decision to temporarily suspend passenger operations for the safety of our staff and local people.

“But the flights we’ve relaunched today have shown that we can get through these difficult times and come back with a renewed sense of purpose. Thanks to announcements such as our new Newquay route and how the airport is welcoming new names and developing for businesses, we have a stronger offer than ever.

“To encourage people back through our doors, I’m delighted to also be launching our summer sale, so people from across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool can get to destinations like the capital or the fantastic tourist destination of Newquay by air at even better prices.

“Our airport is about much more than just flights, as important as these are. It is a key part of my plan for local jobs for local workers, I’ve always said that the investment that will create the good-quality, well-paid jobs won’t come on a bus, it will come through our airport terminal.”

In line with Government guidance and for the wellbeing and safety of staff and passengers, the airport is currently only open to those planning to travel and airport staff. New health and safety measures have also been put in place for the airport, with six steps including hand sanitisation points and face masks now in operation.