The budget airline's new summer service from Cornwall Airport Newquay took off last week and will operate twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer season.

The launch comes only two months after Skybus axed its Newquay to London route because of rising fuel costs.

Skybus had taken over the service last year under a Passenger Service Obligation (PSO) contract jointly funded by the Government and Cornwall Council following the collapse of previous operator Eastern Airways.

Its withdrawal in April left Ryanair's service between Newquay and London Stansted as the only direct air link to the capital.

The addition of easyJet's Gatwick flights gives passengers another option for travelling between Cornwall and London during the busy summer months.

Nigel Scott, commercial director at Cornwall Airport Newquay, welcomed the launch.

He said: "It is fantastic to see easyJet's new London Gatwick service take to the skies.

"The route will strengthen our London connectivity during the busy summer season and give local passengers greater choice while making it even easier for visitors to experience everything Cornwall has to offer."

The new route comes just days after easyJet confirmed it will launch its first ever international service from Cornwall Airport Newquay.

The airline will begin flying to Geneva from January 16, 2027, with weekly Saturday departures running until February 27, including the February half-term holidays.

The seasonal winter service is designed to provide travellers from Cornwall with direct access to some of Europe's leading ski resorts.

Scott described the Geneva route as "a real milestone" for the airport.

He said: "Demand for direct ski access from the region is high, and the new Geneva service provides an affordable and convenient way for travellers to land on the doorstep of some of Europe's best resorts."

Kevin Doyle, easyJet's UK country manager, said the airline was pleased to be expanding its presence in Cornwall.

He said: "We are delighted to have launched our summer route between London Gatwick and Newquay, and to be putting our first international service from the region on sale, with our winter route to Geneva.

"Together they offer customers greater regional connectivity and access to Europe and beyond through our leading short-haul network, while continuing to support Cornwall's important visitor economy."

Fares on the new London Gatwick service start from £43.99, while seats on the Geneva route are available from £37.99.