What the UK Department of Transport described as "a vital air route between City of Derry Airport and London Stansted" is to stay open until March 2024 after the government promised more money for it.
"Today’s announcement will secure the future of the route for another year until March 31st 2024 and enable up to 19 return flights every week", the the department said. The government has funded the route since 2017 and will provide £2.2 million over the next 12 months to keep Loganair flying between the two airports.
“Thousands of people and businesses depend on this crucial travel link, which is why we remain committed to securing the route," said Baroness Vere, the UK's aviation minister.
“Our funding will maintain this vital connection between Derry/Londonderry and London, with 19 services operating every week for at least another year, supporting jobs, and providing a boost to Northern Ireland’s economy", the baroness added.
Derry mayor Sandra Duffy described the announcement as "extremely positive news" because "regular, reliable services to London are critical to the north-west economy in terms of both business and leisure".
ENDS