Irish regional airline Aer Arann has started operating flights from London's Southend airport.
Aer Arann now offers direct daily flights from Southend to Waterford and four-times weekly to Galway.
On the three days a week without a direct service, passengers for Galway will be able to fly via Waterford.
Paul Schütz, Aer Arann's CEO, said the launch of the flights marks a "significant milestone" for the airline.
“Together with London Southend Airport we are delighted to provide business and leisure customers with new connections between Ireland and the UK,” he said.
Southend airport is currently undergoing development which will see an extended runway, a new rail link with central London and a new terminal open by 2012.
Alastair Welch, Managing Director of London Southend Airport said: ‘We’re very pleased to welcome Aer Arann to London Southend at this every exciting time in our redevelopment.
“We look forward to further route announcements over the coming months.’
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