Air link to capital returns as first Skybus flight takes off

THE first Skybus flight from Cornwall to London has taken off, weeks after the collapse of former provider Eastern Airways.

- By BRITTA ZELTMANN

The flight left Newquay on Sunday afternoon

The airline arm of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group agreed last month to cover the service between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick after regional operator Eastern Airways announced it was on the brink of administration.

Sunday afternoon marked Skybus’ first takeoff for the daily round-trip route, which is subsidised by the Government and Cornwall Council, and the 12 passengers on board had plenty of room on the 180-seat Boeing 737.

Fares on the Skybus route begin at £79.99 one-way, including a 15kg checked baggage allowance.