Teesside’s Crucial Aberdeen Link Takes Off Again Thanks to Eastern

A crucial transport link to offshore industry jobs in the North Sea has started under a new operator at Teesside International Airport.

Eastern Airways began its new from Teesside to Aberdeen on Monday afternoon (20 May).

The new daily flights will initially be the only direct service from the North-East to Aberdeen – operating daily on weekdays and Sundays before increasing to twice daily from Monday, 9 September.

It means offshore workers from Teesside and the wider region will continue to benefit from an Aberdeen link when heading to and from oil, gas, and offshore wind facilities.

Eastern previously operated the east coast service between 2001 and 2022.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We’re at the forefront of new offshore industries coming to Teesside – and we’ve had a longstanding and deeply skilled workforce grafting in the North Sea and around the world for decades now.

“It is absolutely vital offshore workers keep their link to Aberdeen to get to and from work, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring this back to our departure boards.

“As things stand, we’re the only airport offering an Aberdeen link in the North-East. It shows, once again, that our airport is about more than just holiday flights – it’s helping the livelihoods of people in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.”

NOF is a business organisation which helps in forging connections between firms in the global energy sector – with many members in supply chain businesses across the North-East and UK.

Paul Livingstone, Head of Membership for NOF, said: “The revival of daily flights between Teesside International Airport and Aberdeen provides a vital commuter route for our energy sector members, reinforcing business connections for the region’s expanding offshore energy facilities.

“This development enhances regional infrastructure, fosters collaboration, and accelerates opportunities for our members and stakeholders.”

Eastern Airways has based a 100-seat Embraer 190 jet at the airport last month to operate KLM Cityhopper’s service to Amsterdam.

Eastern Airways commercial director Roger Hage added: “Eastern Airways have been operating from Teesside every year since 2001 so returning to the Aberdeen service from today restores familiarity to many faces we have welcomed on-board for many years.

“We more than any operator know the value of connecting the UK’s energy capital Aberdeen to significant regional employment centres throughout the UK so adding Teesside to our growing route mix, while also operating services such as Amsterdam on behalf of KLM, and the summer seasonal Jersey flights, all help ensure the long-term future of connectivity from Teesside responding to demand as strong and vibrant UK regional airport and airlines working in partnership.”

The service will be operated up to twice daily, with flights including a complimentary drink and snack alongside various baggage inclusive fare options.

Multi-flight route pass fares offering discounts and free flight changes for regular passengers will also be available.