TRAVELLERS are going to be able to go from the North-East to the capital of Wales in 75 minutes when an airline launches its latest service.

Eastern Airways is to launch the link to Wales with its first service to Cardiff from Newcastle International Airport.

The journey by road takes at least seven hours, and the journey by rail is well over five hours.

From April 24, the regional airline will offer North-East travellers three flights each weekday from Newcastle to Cardiff, using a 29-seat Jetstream 41 aircraft.

The North-East has strong links with South Wales and the service will benefit businesses in petro-chemical, technology, manufacturing and construction industries.

Keith Watson, Eastern Airways' head of sales and marketing, said: "This new route is great news for North-East business travellers, as we are providing by far the fastest way for them to get to the Welsh capital and South Wales.

"Newcastle has always been an important hub for us and, following the introduction of London City this year, we now offer the best network and choice of services to UK destinations from the airport."