Humberside Airport’s connection to the global gateway of Amsterdam will be reinstated next month as KLM resumes operations.
The Dutch airline will take a phased approach to the Schipol service, initially launching with a daily flight from northern Lincolnshire on August 3.
Subject to passenger demand, it will ramp back up to three North Sea crossings a day.
Bookings are now open on the route, as part of a second phase of UK departures to return.
Deborah Zost, managing director of Humberside Airport said: “We are very pleased that KLM is resuming flights from Humberside and look forward to welcoming back business travellers and holidaymakers.
“We have remained open throughout the coronavirus pandemic, giving critical support to medical; offshore energy transportation; military training and regional connectivity flights, along with HM Coastguard’s search and rescue activity.
“The return of the KLM Amsterdam service is a positive sign of recovery and is great news as it enables customers in our region to connect once again with hundreds of destinations worldwide, from their local airport via the global hub at Schiphol.”
Discussions continue with other airline partners regarding the reintroduction of further flights and services. Humberside to Aberdeen was maintained throughout by Eastern Airways.
Schipol flights will be operated by KLM Cityhopper using an Embraer 175 aircraft.
Following the UK government’s introduction of travel corridors, passengers will have self-isolation exemption when connecting to more than 60 worldwide destinations.
Benedicte Duval, general manager for KLM in the UK & Ireland, said: “The resumption of the daily service between Humberside and Amsterdam is testament to our long term commitment to the region and we are delighted to once again be in a position to offer worldwide connectivity to and from Humberside, despite the recent challenges for our industry.
“As borders reopen and travel restrictions begin to ease, safety is a prerequisite for KLM as we gradually resume travel.
“As we all adapt to this new environment, I can assure you that all KLM staff, both on the ground and on board, are committed to guaranteeing our passengers the highest levels of health and safety.”
KLM is gradually rebuilding its global network, and expects to operate 95 per cent of the normal number of European destinations and 80 per cent of intercontinental routes in August, though half the latter are currently cargo-only.
A range of measures have been introduced, including face masks, physical distancing in the airport and onboard where possible, cleaning and suspending in-flight trolley services.
KLM is also offering free date and destination changes until August 31 to allow passengers to book with confidence.
