Fast-growing budget airline easyJet plans to establish a regional base in Newcastle, it emerged today. More than 100 jobs are likely to be created through the expansion, with the first flights taking-off next Spring.

A network of routes from Newcastle airport, most likely to mainland Europe, will be unveiled in December. Two easyJet aircraft will initially be based in the north-east, rising to four in 2004.

BA's former low-cost brand Go, now owned by easyJet, already runs a regular service to Newcastle from London Stansted.