Flights between the city got under way on Monday (14 September) offering twice-weekly north-south connectivity.

Loganair then plans to extend the route to a daily service next March in the hope of capitalising on renewed demand for domestic breaks owing to Covid-19.

It is the latest in a string of former Flybe routes picked up by Loganair, with several other domestic carriers also helping rebuild UK domestic flight schedules.

Loganair will fly between Exeter and Newcastle on Mondays and Fridays, with fares leading in from £54.99pp one-way.

It will operate the route using a 49-seat Embraer 145 jet.

Kay Ryan, Loganair chief commercial officer, said: “For many, summer holidays this year were a write-off, so we’re confident the introduction of daily flights for summer 2021 will be especially welcome for families looking to make the most of next year.”

Matt Roach, Exeter airport managing director, added the new route came as a boost after “months of well-documented hardship” for Exeter.

“It’s important we restore as much regional connectivity as possible. We’re ready to receive passengers with new health protocols at the airport and onboard with Loganair,” he said.

“We’re already looking forward to summer 2021 when schedules will be further enhanced to Newcastle, and Loganair will add Glasgow flights.”