Flybe has confirmed details of a new year round service between Cornwall Airport Newquay and Leeds Bradford Airport that will operate three times a week from October 28, 2016, increasing to a five times weekly service during the summer.

This is the fourth and final Flybe route to be announced under the Government’s Regional Air Connectivity Fund. The new route turns what would otherwise be a six hour drive or eight hour rail journey into a short one hour and 20 minute flight.

Al Titterington, Cornwall Airport Newquay’s managing director, said: “Providing year round connectivity on our network is a key part of our strategy so we’re pleased that the government-supported RACF has enabled Flybe to connect Cornwall and West Yorkshire starting this winter. Air services from the South West have been disconnected from Leeds Bradford for a number of years so the introduction of the service is a welcome boost to the region.”

The Government’s Regional Air Connectivity Fund was launched last year as a way of encouraging new routes to and from UK regional airports and improving connectivity for business and leisure travellers.