Derry to London flight route continues to fly high with government backing

Derry-Londonderry residents will be able to continue taking direct flights to London due to renewed funding from the UK government.

Revealed today (August 23) by Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport, the route between City of Derry Airport and London will remain. The final destination will be moving from Stansted to Southend Airport.

Grant said: “I’m backing this route because I understand just how important these daily direct flights linking London and Northern Ireland are. Whether it brings businesses together or reunites loved ones, it will enhance connections across the UK.”

This public service obligation (PSO) protects a route which provides a supposedly ‘valuable’ connection for businesses in the region, maintaining 26 flights per week on a 49 seater aircraft.

Up to six direct trains an hour from London Southend Airport also provide a connection to London in over 50 minutes.

The decision could ensure passengers can travel from Derry to London and back in one day without the need to stay overnight, while boosting tourism for both regions.