SOUTHEND Airport is set to take over the “vital” route between Northern Ireland’s second city and London.

Now very well-known thanks to the hugely popular Derry Girls, flights to Derry-Londonderry from Southend will start in October.

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Announcement - Jonathan Hinkles and Glyn Jones

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Short-break - the Dark Hedges is an hour's drive from Derry-Londonderry

The previous route, from Stansted, was cancelled in February after the demise of Flybmi and was initially re-installed after Scottish firm Loganair stepped in.

But following a tender process, Southend was chosen as the London base.

The main point of the route - a Government public service obligation - is to protect the business links between the Maiden City and London, but it will also provide an extra city break destination from Southend.

While Derry-Londonderry is already a burgeoning tourist city, it is also less than an hour’s drive from the world famous Giant’s Causeway. And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll also be keen to make the hour-long drive to the Dark Hedges.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, who announced the route, said: “I’m backing this route because I understand just how important these daily direct flights linking London and Northern Ireland are.

“Whether it brings businesses together or reunites loved ones it will enhance connections across the UK.

He added: “This public service obligation (PSO) protects an important route which provides a valuable connection for businesses in the region, maintaining 26 flights per week on a 49 seater aircraft. Up to six direct trains an hour from London Southend Airport also provide a connection to the City of London in just over 50 minutes.

"The decision ensures passengers can travel from Derry to London and back, conducting a full day of business without the need for an overnight stay, while boosting tourism to the region. The route will also provide valuable economic support to the region, helping to secure jobs.

"UK airports like City of Derry Airport play an important role in delivering domestic and international connections that help passengers travel further and link businesses to global trade partners, and this government subsidy will help support an important connection to London, helping people do business, visit family and go on holiday.

"The renewal of this funding is a clear example of the government’s own ambitions for a thriving economy as it works to ensure all regions and nations of the UK are well served by airports and routes to the rest of the country."

Julian Smith, Northern Ireland Secretary of State, said: “This route is vital for the expanding economy of Derry-Londonderry, including local business and tourism, and will become even more important as we work towards finalising a city deal for the area.”

Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair Managing Director, said: “London Southend is a highly convenient entry point to England’s capital and the South East, serviced by its own dedicated train station only 100 steps away from the airport terminal.

“This latest phase of partnership between Loganair and London Southend Airport will significantly enhance air connectivity in Northern Ireland’s North West, generating lasting benefits for both the region’s economy and our customers.”

Glyn Jones, of Stobart Aviation, which owns and operates Southend Airport, added: “We are delighted London Southend has been selected to help retain this important daily link between Derry and London, which is vital for business and tourism.”