Eastern Airways has launched services from Southampton Airport to the EU capital, Brussels.

The UK’s second largest regional airline, has secured the future of Southampton - Brussels route with a daily service (except Saturdays), following Flybe’s withdrawal from the route at the end of February 2012.

Eastern Airways moved quickly to ensure a continuation of this important link from the south of England to Brussels. The airline is no stranger to the Southampton – Brussels service, as it previously operated the route for two years until 2008 when Flybe started flying the niche route.

Weekday flights will leave Southampton Airport at 11.10am on Mondays and Tuesdays, 1pm on Wednesdays, and 10.55am on Thursdays and Fridays.
From Brussels weekday flights depart at 1.55pm on Mondays and Tuesdays, 3.45pm on Wednesdays and 1.40pm on Thursdays and Fridays (all are local times).

On Sundays services will take off from Southampton at 3.55pm and return services depart from Brussels at 6.30pm.

Kay Ryan, Eastern Airways’ commercial director, said: “Our fully inclusive service is not only the most convenient way to reach Brussels from Southampton and the south coast of England, but also helps strong trade and business links continue between the region and the EU capital. Later Sunday flights will benefit business travellers heading for Monday morning meetings, while tourists visiting Brussels and Bruges can also take advantage of the service.”

Southampton Airport managing director, Dave Lees, said, “We’re delighted to welcome Eastern Airways back to this route today. It’s a highly requested route by both our business and leisure passengers, who are looking for convenient flights to this major European centre.”

Since 2003, Eastern Airways has operated scheduled services from Southampton Airport and is consistently rated one of the UK’s most punctual scheduled airlines.

A dedicated fast track security channel is offered at Southampton Airport for all Eastern Airways passengers to avoid any queues at security search, which also enables the airline to close check-in just 30 minutes before the departure time. Passengers flying with the airline are not charged for check-in, baggage, choice of seat or onboard drinks and snacks.

The airline has a fleet of 30 aircraft flying from 21 airports in the UK, Norway, Belgium and France.