A SCHEDULED flight part of a brand new set of weekday departures from Teesside Airport had to be cancelled on its first day of operation.

The first flight of Loganair's new daily service between the region and London Heathrow was left unable to operate on Monday, March 8.

It is understood that the flight was cancelled due to low passenger numbers, while the airline and airport have moved to reassure that it remains commited to the service.

It comes as it was announced that Loganair would begin the daily service from today following last week's news that the Treasury is set to move to Darlington.

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At the time, it was confirmed that the airline would operate twice a day, Monday to Friday, with a single flight on Sunday. 

Meanwhile, it said from the end of March that weekend services between Teesside and the capital would increase to one morning flight on Saturday, and two on Sunday.

But responding to the cancellation of the first scheduled departure in the new series of flights on Monday, Loganair said today did not "affect" its commitment.

The Northern Echo: Picture: CONTRIBUTORPicture: CONTRIBUTOR

A Spokesperson for the Loganair said: “In these uncertain times people can and do change bookings at last minute and can lead to passenger loads being unexpectedly higher or lower. This does not affect our commitment to operating a flight.”

The Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who last week welcomed Loganair's increasing of services following the Treasury announcement, echoed what airline bosses said.

He said: “Loganair is committed to Teesside International and has made it clear it is looking to expand its operations as people begin flying again.

“Lockdown restrictions are starting to lift, the vaccine rollouts across our region and the UK are continuing to be a huge success, bringing a light at the end of the tunnel for people wanting to travel.

"Loganair’s ticketing agreements with some of the world’s biggest airlines means they will soon be able to fly globally on one ticket via London Heathrow, with the reassurance and benefits of through check-ins and luggage."

Mr Houchen said that work continues on a major refit of the airport, which is set to be completed in April this year.

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He said: “In the meantime, work is continuing on the transformation of the terminal with new check-in desks, revamped security, food and drink options and the return of duty free to make it even easier than ever for passengers to use their local airport."