SOUTHEND will be among the first airports to fly commercial services to the Lake District in more than 25 years.

The new route to Carlisle Lake District Airport - which is one of three announced today by the Stobart Group owners - launches on July 4 and flights can be booked from today.

Kate Willard, Director of Partnership Development for Stobart Group, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of commercial and business flights at Carlisle Lake District Airport on Thursday 4 July.

“The team have been working around the clock and have been amazing since the very start of the project.

"I would also like to thank the people of Carlisle, Cumbria and the Lake District and our partners for their patience.

“Despite the delays, the last commercial flights at Carlisle Lake District Airport were in 1993 and we are chuffed that we are bringing them back to the region for the first time in more than 25 years.”

Jonathan Hinkles, managing director of Loganair, said: “We’re extremely pleased to announce that tickets are now on sale linking Carlisle Lake District airport with Dublin, Belfast and London Southend.

“These air services will significantly benefit the overall Carlisle and Borderlands region, attracting thousands of tourists and enhancing connectivity for those wishing to do business at both ends of the routes.”

Fares from Southend Airport start from £44.99.

Jason Gooding, chief executive at Carlisle City Council, said: "This is great news for Carlisle and the Borderlands region. I’m grateful to Stobart Group for the confidence they continue to have in our place.

“Their vision and persistence has delivered a fantastic regional airport, which is a key asset for Carlisle’s bright future. It’s not just our cousins across the Atlantic who’ll be celebrating on the 4th July!”

Gill Haigh, Managing Director of Cumbria Tourism, said: “This is great news for Cumbria’s connectivity and will be welcomed by businesses across the county’s thriving £2.9billion tourism industry.

“The flights through Carlisle Lake District Airport will open up new markets and give potential visitors new alternative transport options to come and explore iconic landscapes and experiences throughout Cumbria. We will continue to work with the Airport, businesses and partners to ensure we can all make the most of this exciting new development.”

Aviation Minister, Liz Sugg, said: “The return of commercial flights from Carlisle Lake District Airport means better connections for the region, a boost to tourism and significant opportunities for businesses in the area.

“Regional airports are vital for strengthening links and increasing growth across the whole of the UK, and through our Aviation Strategy the government is identifying ways to maximise these benefits.”