THE first flight from Newcastle to Dubai in more than a year will take off tonight as Emirates makes an exciting return following Covid.
Flight 34 is expected to depart Newcastle Airport as the airline resumes its flights between the region and the UAE.
The return has been described as an "important" milestone in the recovery for the airport, while local leaders have welcomed the resuming of the route.
Read more: Emirates confirms Newcastle Airport to Dubai flights will restart
It comes as the airline suspended flights between the region and Dubai more than a year ago after restrictions on travel globally due to the Covid pandemic.
The first flight will depart at 9.10pm on Friday after the first Dubai to Newcastle service arrives at 7.10pm.
Operated by a Boeing 777-300, the return marks the resuming of a four-times weeky service between the two airports.
Richard Jewsbury, Divisional Vice President at Emirates UK, said: “We’re extremely pleased to see flights returning to and from Newcastle, responding to an increase in bookings across the UK since international travel was made far simpler.
"In over ten years of operations, millions of people from the North East and beyond have enjoyed our unrivalled travel experience, and we look forward to welcoming more passengers back on board soon.”
As before, passengers will be given the choice of either First, Business Class or Economy, with the resumption of chauffeur services for higher priced tickets.
'An important milestone'
Nick Jones, Chief Executive Officer of Newcastle Airport, said: “Today marks a very important milestone in the recovery of the Airport and of international travel from the region.
"Emirates has operated flights from Newcastle International Airport since 2007, providing vital connectivity to Dubai and beyond for passengers travelling for business, leisure or to visit friends and family.
"The route has also carried billions of pounds worth of cargo into and out of the region - supporting businesses right across the North.
"Dubai is one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations and we are delighted that the return of the route today, with a new evening departure time, will provide another option for those looking for a well-deserved winter sun getaway from Newcastle.”
'Very welcome news'
The return has prompted widespread excitement and anticipation for a stronger future with local leaders welcoming Emirates' return.
Councillor Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council and Chair of the LA7 shareholders, said: "This is very welcome news for the airport and the North East as a whole.
"This route is extremely important, not only for leisure passengers, but also in supporting businesses across the region to trade and export worldwide.
"The return of the airline signals a major step in the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.
"The future success of our region’s economy relies heavily on good connectivity with the wider world so the fact that this marks the final step in restoring the region’s international connectivity to pre-pandemic levels is a significant milestone.”
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