Transport Secretary confirms new Cornwall route at Heathrow Airport

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has revealed plans for a new direct route between Heathrow Airport and Cornwall.

The flights, connecting the capital with Newquay, are supported by joint funding from the Government and Cornwall Council to link South West businesses with potential trade partners in 85 countries.

According to the Government, the route is an example of its commitment to ensuring all UK regions are well served by airports.

Chris Grayling MP, Secretary of State for Transport, said: “The government has been clear that maintaining and enhancing air routes that help bring together the UK, is one of the key benefits of any expansion at Heathrow.

“This new route will see the people of the South West profit from a direct connection into our national hub airport even before it expands, building on the government’s ongoing commitment to the Newquay route, protecting choice and strengthening trade and travel opportunities for the whole UK.”

The Newquay-Heathrow route will start from April 2019.

Heathrow Airport chief exec John Holland Kaye commented: “We are delighted to secure a more regular service to Newquay, connecting exporters from Cornwall to global markets through Heathrow and making it easier for inward investors, tourists and students from all over the world to get there.

“Following the successful launch in 2016 of an Inverness service, the UK’s two furthest mainland airports will now be connected to the UK’s biggest port.”

Al Titterington, managing director of Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: “We have been working for many years to make sure that Cornwall Airport Newquay has direct access to Europe’s busiest hub, and with this new service it opens not just a connection to the UK’s leading gateway, but also the world.

“By having direct flights to Heathrow, it grows the strength of Newquay and Cornwall’s brand abroad, which is great for the local business community and those wanting to visit our beautiful county.”