London Southend Airport has unveiled a brand-new airline and route, answering the demand from travellers across Essex, London, and East Anglia. From 3rd April 2025, Eastern Airways will launch a daily flight connecting Southend to the stunning Cornish coast, offering a convenient and time-saving alternative to the lengthy drive or train journey.
Affordable and convenient flights to Cornwall
One-way fares will start from just £59.99, making this an accessible option for holidaymakers, business travellers, and those visiting family. Tickets will go on sale from Monday, 13th January, giving passengers ample time to secure their seats ahead of the busy summer season.
The new connection marks the 20th destination now available from Southend Airport, further solidifying its position as a growing hub for regional and international travel. With its efficient terminal and fast rail connections to central London, Southend is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to the capital’s larger, more congested airports.
Flight schedule details
Travellers can expect a smooth and convenient service with flight times designed for flexibility:
- Southend to Newquay: 14:00 – 15:30 (Monday-Saturday) | 15:15 – 16:45 (Sunday)
- Newquay to Southend: 11:45 – 13:15 (Monday-Saturday) | 13:10 – 14:40 (Sunday)
The flight duration of just 90 minutes will dramatically cut down travel time compared to the typical 6-7 hour drive between Essex and Cornwall, making weekend getaways and short breaks far more viable.
Nigel Mayes, Business Development Manager at London Southend Airport, expressed enthusiasm for the launch: “The return of a route to Newquay is a great way to start the new year; connecting passengers from coast to capital and into London with our on-site train line, just 43 minutes into Stratford or 52 minutes to London Liverpool Street. We look forward to welcoming new customers, and returning faces, in April this year.”
Meanwhile, Roger Hage, Commercial Director at Eastern Airways, highlighted the strategic importance of the route: “Adding London Southend for 2025 as our second London airport connection to Newquay Cornwall follows the success the team in Southend have shown in the increasing strength of the easyJet product. This helps open the North & East of the capital – plus Essex and Suffolk especially – to a daily service to the South-West of England, complementing our London Gatwick twice-daily offer. The speed of access to Greater London via the adjacent rail link offers an appealing option, helping to avoid the otherwise arduous alternative travel options.”
Local residents share their excitement
The news has sparked enthusiasm among frequent travellers and residents alike, with many sharing their hopes for even more domestic routes from Southend Airport.
Julie Samuels said: “I’d love to see more domestic flights – Manchester to Southend or even better, Liverpool to Southend. It would mean I could come and see family and friends more often.”
Sonya Tripcony added: “They need to bring back flights to Jersey all year round – those flights were so popular for both the young and old.”
Cornwall resident Dave Morris shared how this new route would benefit him personally: “I live in Cornwall and this is a great idea for myself so we can visit relatives in Leigh-on-Sea.”
Meanwhile, Toria Rampaul summed up the convenience of the new service: “Excellent news! I’d rather fly than spend 7 hours driving to Cornwall. You can hire a car at the airport, and it’s a win-win.”
What’s next for Southend Airport?
With the addition of this sought-after Newquay service, the question remains: which routes would travellers like to see next? As demand grows, Southend Airport could see further expansion in its domestic and European connections, making travel easier for residents of Essex and beyond.
For now, the countdown begins to April 2025, when passengers can take to the skies for a quick and scenic journey to one of the UK’s most beloved coastal destinations.