TWO Irish airlines have announced new flights which will reconnect a North-East airport with the Emerald Isle.

Aer Arann and Aer Lingus will run a franchise agreement which will include a route between Durham Tees Valley and Dublin.

Five weekly services will run between Durham Tees Valley and the Irish capital. Operators said the number of services would increase to six daily flights by May.

The services will be branded as Aer Lingus Regional and be operated by Aer Arann aircraft and crew.

Durham Tees Valley Airport director Kerry Quinn said: It really is good news that Aer Arann sees the potential for Durham Tees Valley as part of its development plans in partnership with Aer Lingus.

This news follows on from other new business announcements for the Airport and is a further endorsement of the terminal development plans we recently unveiled.

Aer Arann chief executive Paul Schutz said: "It is a major development for Irish aviation and the tourism industry.

"The combined strengths of both airlines, including brand power and market presence, will allow us to offer a quality customer product that meets the capacity requirements of existing and new destinations including Durham."

Julia Frater from visitTeesvalley said: "The new service will also greatly assist in promoting the attractions of the Tees Valley and surrounding area to the Irish market."

All flights are on sale at www.aerlingus.com.