Partner Article

Newcastle-Bergen link re-established

Newcastle and Bergen’s 60-year relationship will receive a major boost today as an airline company launches its new flights between the twin cities.

Last year saw the withdrawal of the long-standing ferry service linking the destinations but the new Eastern Airways service is set to restore historical ties.

Chris Holliday, Eastern Airway’s chief operating officer, said: “The strong links between Newcastle and Bergen go back many years. This re-joining is of great importance to both regions.

“The service will benefit business travelers but also leisure travelers taking short breaks in Bergen and the North East.

Newcastle is twinned with the Norwegian city and to mark the special friendship, the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Mike Cookson, will be travelling on the first flight.

On arrival he will present the city of Bergen with a sapling in gratitude for the Christmas tree Newcastle has received for the last 60 years.

Chris Sanders, Newcastle International Airport’s head of aviation development, said: “We’re delighted that Eastern Airways has restored this Norwegian link.

“Trade and tourism has always been strong between our regions and this is great news for the North East.”

Andrew Dixon, chief executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “Newcastle and Gateshead is an ideal destination for Norwegian visitors and we expect a high level of inbound visitors for the city for its shopping, nightlife and culture.”

The UK regional airline will start a daily weekday service with flights departing at 10:30am arriving at Bergen at 1.35pm local time. Services leave Bergen at 2.30pm arriving in Newcastle at 3.35pm UK time.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .