British Airways is to begin flying out of Cornwall from the end of this month.

The airline will be taking over the Newquay to Heathrow flights that ended with the collapse of Flybe.

Now they are to begin again, from July 24, with British Airways initially operating three flights a week in July, increasing to five a week in August and daily from September.

The service will operate under a Public Service Obligation, which provides financial support, if required, to ensure the route is maintained year-round. 

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Commercial flights began again at Cornwall Airport Newquay on Saturday and new measures have been put in place to ensure a safe experience for all passengers and staff.

Temperature screening will be in place as passengers enter the terminal building and anyone over the age of 11 will have to wear a face covering.

Passenger movement around the airport has been re-worked to help aid social distancing, and enhanced cleaning regimes have been introduced.

Geoff Brown, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for transport, said: “I welcome the arrival of British Airways in Cornwall to operate our key route between Newquay and London. This PSO service not only protects Cornwall’s links with London, but will also offer excellent connectivity around the world into the future.

“While it is vital for our residents and business community that direct flights between Newquay and London are reinstated, we are taking a measured approach at this time and I am pleased that British Airways has recognised the importance of a phased return of the London service.

“We are confident that as the airline industry begins to make steps to resume operations, the introduction of this well respected national airline, operating into the UK’s major hub airport will offer fantastic worldwide connectivity and a major boost for both Cornwall’s airport and the economy of the region.

“The collapse of Flybe was a blow, but we have been able to work with Cornwall Airport Newquay, the Department for Transport and St Austell and Newquay MP Steve Double, to secure the new operator. 

“British Airways will be operating the PSO route under an emergency order for seven months while we work with the DfT to run the tender process for the four year contract which will begin in March 2021.”