In a strategic move to expand its regional network, Air Southwest, the low-cost airline has introduced brand new routes departing from Plymouth and Newquay airports.

Air Southwest's new schedule for this year offers a wide range of choices for its passengers to take flights from Plymouth to destinations like Newcastle, Glasgow, Dublin and Cork. Later during this year's winter schedule, the airline has also decided to offer a brand new service to Chambéry, the popular gateway to the French Alps.

Departing from Newquay Airport, the airline will offer flights to Glasgow and Newcastle. In addition, later during this year, Air Southwest will also offer a brand new connection to Chambéry, besides increasing the frequency of its services to Cork. Notably, the summer only service offered by the airline in this route last year was an overwhelming success.

The entry of Air Southwest to the Newcastle Airport was welcomed by rolling out the mini bowling green for Plymouth's renowned historical figure, a look alike Sir Francis Drake.

Chris Sanders, Newcastle Airport personnel remarked, "Today's launch of new flights with Air Southwest is a real endorsement of our services at Newcastle Airport. The south west offers so much for people living in the north east and forging connections between the two regions will become much easier with these air links."

In the year 2006, the South West region of England was highly popular for an overnight trip, attracting over 20 million overnight stays estimated at about £3.7bn.