Teesside Airport is poised to announce a major new summer destination as part of its expansion plans, the Northern Echo can reveal.

The airport has held talks with major airlines this summer over adding new routes as part of efforts to grow passenger numbers.

Holidaymakers can currently fly to destinations including Majorca, the Algarve and Turkey but the Northern Echo understands that a new route is likely to be unveiled in coming days.

The announcement will be seen as a major coup for airport bosses and follows Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen’s election pledge earlier this year to bring in a flight to Malaga in Spain.

Industry insiders say Teesside’s recent success, including being named UK and Ireland Airport of the Year and high levels of customer satisfaction is continuing to attract airlines looking to bring in new routes.

The announcement comes after the airport reported its first profit since its return to public ownership earlier this year but that claim was questioned by critics who argued its earnings were calculated before interest. 

The airport is enjoying its highest passenger numbers in more than a decade for the second year running this summer.

It has also been boosted by ongoing commercial developments, including the recent opening of a new aircraft painting facility operated by Airbourne Colours following a £6.5 million investment.

However, airport chiefs previously warned that growth in passenger numbers is likely to be slower than targeted in coming years due to global supply chain and new aircraft delivery delays making it difficult for airlines to plan to support new routes and bases, and the longer-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the aviation industry.  

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A formal strategic review led by a leading independent accountancy firm has been requested to assess and revise the airport’s 10-year financial sustainability plan, which is at the halfway stage of its 2019-2029 duration.

The review will inform future airport strategy in response to market changes.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We don’t comment on speculation but we are working hard with airlines to deliver the destinations that the people of Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool want – as well as those from further afield who want a better airport experience.”