Flybe is preparing to step in and save the air link between Newquay and Manchester, after Air Southwest drops the route on September 14.
Following the planned closure of Plymouth Airport, Air Southwest announced earlier this month it has no choice but to cease all operations by September 30.
Starting October 30, Flybe will fly four times a week between Manchester and Newquay.
On Monday, Thursday and Friday, flights will leave the southwest airport at 10.50am, arriving into Manchester at 12.05pm, while on Sunday flights will leave at 2.30pm and arrive at 1.40pm.
From Manchester, flights will leave at 2.40pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday, and 4.15pm on Sunday. Arrival times will be 3.50pm and 5.30pm respectively.
Mike Rutter, Flybe’s chief commercial officer, said the move to take on Air Southwest’s route was in recognition of “how vital it is for Cornwall to continue to have regular air access to key destinations”.
“We know how important it is to keep Britain on the move,” he said.
“We have every expectation that this new year-round route will become as popular as our London Gatwick service and that we will be able to increase frequency for Summer 2012.”
Flybe’s commitment to Newquay was welcomed by Al Titterington, the airport’s managing director, who said it was “timely and a great boost to the airport”.
“We are confident that there is a demand for air services to and from Cornwall, and this announcement demonstrates that belief,” he said.
“It is vital that year round services to Manchester are maintained and Flybe recognises this important link.”