Cornwall to London Flights Return: What the New Skybus Service Means for You

Skybus has marked the return of direct flights between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick, celebrating the first departures of what is being described as an essential year-round connection for Cornwall.

The route, which resumed on Sunday 23rd November, follows Skybus being awarded the interim Public Service Obligation contract by Cornwall Council earlier this month.

A Daily Lifeline for Cornwall

The airline says the service will offer dependable daily flights through the winter, with plans to expand to twice-daily weekday services from February 2026.

Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Skybus, said: “Today’s flight is a proud moment for Skybus and a major step forward for connectivity in Cornwall. This route is about more than transport. It’s about ensuring people, communities, and businesses have dependable access to London all year round. We’re delighted to offer this service and look forward to welcoming passengers on board in the months ahead.”

Airport and Government Backing

Cornwall Airport Newquay’s Managing Director Amy Smith added: “Today is an important milestone for Cornwall Airport Newquay and the communities we serve. This vital London connection strengthens our region’s resilience and supports our economy and tourism year-round. We’re delighted to welcome Skybus as our partner on this essential route and look forward to working together to deliver a dependable service for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted the government’s support, saying: “Thanks to our partnership with the local council and our direct investment of nearly £1 million, I am delighted Skybus’ first flights will take off today to ensure this vital connection between London and Cornwall is protected. Routes like this are a lifeline for local communities and businesses, supporting jobs, tourism, and regional growth. I look forward to seeing the positive impact the return of regular, reliable flights will have for the region and its economy.”

Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for economic regeneration and investment Cllr Tim Dwelly said: “I am pleased to see these flights resuming, they are a vital connection in terms of both our business and tourism sectors, and will be a real boost for confidence.”

London Gatwick’s Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Pollard added: “We are really pleased to welcome Skybus to London Gatwick. The service supports people and businesses across Cornwall with vital year-round access to London and the wider region through Gatwick’s excellent onward connectivity.”

Fares, Bags and Booking

Fares start at £79.99 one way and include a 15kg checked bag. Customers can buy extra baggage or add the Skybus FlyFlexi option, which offers additional baggage allowance, ticket flexibility and fast-track airport security where available for an extra £22.50 one way.

Flights can be booked at www.skybus.co.uk, with summer 2026 tickets due to be released soon.

Flight Timetable

From 23rd November 2025

Departing Newquay (NQY)
Mon: 07:00, 16:00
Tue: 07:05
Wed: 16:00
Thu: 16:00
Fri: 16:00
Sat: 07:05
Sun: 15:40

Departing Gatwick (LGW)
Mon: 09:05
Tue: 09:05
Wed: 18:00
Thu: 18:00
Fri: 18:00
Sat: 09:05
Sun: 17:40

From 14th February 2026

Departing Newquay (NQY)
Mon: 07:00, 16:00
Tue: 07:00, 16:00
Wed: 07:00, 16:00
Thu: 07:00, 16:00
Fri: 11:45, 16:00
Sat: 07:05
Sun: 15:40

Departing Gatwick (LGW)
Mon: 09:05, 18:00
Tue: 09:05, 18:00
Wed: 09:05, 18:00
Thu: 09:05, 18:00
Fri: 13:45, 18:00
Sat: 09:05
Sun: 17:40

Skybus says it looks forward to offering this renewed connection throughout the year, supporting Cornwall’s economy, residents, visitors and businesses.