Flybe franchise partner Eastern Airways is to take over operating the Aberdeen–London City airport route from next month.
The route will initially be served by a 50-seat Saab 2000 aircraft before being upgraded to a 76-seat Embraer 170 jet.
The fast jet connection will offer quicker flight times of one hour 15 minutes between Aberdeen and London City.
The continuation of the route from May 7 will see the same weekday frequency of two flights a day in each direction and also a Sunday service with fares starting at £89.99 one-way bookable at Flybe.com.
Eastern Airways head of commercial Mathew Herzberg said: “We welcome the opportunity as a franchise partner of Flybe to operate the Aberdeen-London City service, which is part of our strategic business alignment.
“It’s vital that Europe’s oil capital continues to have a direct link with the city of London, which will commence operations with a Saab 2000 and then switch to a jet service providing a quicker, convenient connection to the heart of the capital.”
Aberdeen airport managing director Carol Benzie added: “It is great news that Eastern Airways will be introducing their jet service to operate on the Aberdeen-London City route.
“A seamless transition from Flybe to Eastern Airways, with no break in the service, and a slightly shorter journey duration will hopefully be welcomed by regular travellers on this route.
“Good connectivity into the heart of the UK’s capital is vital for our passengers as well as for the economic prospects of the larger north-east region.”
London City airport commercial director Richard Hill said: “This demonstrates our on-going commitment to regional connectivity, closing the gap between central London and Aberdeen and helping connect businesses and tourists in both directions.”