A five-year deal has been agreed with KLM to secure flights from Teesside airport to Amsterdam.
The Dutch flag carrier is to resume flights from the regional airport on August 3 following suspension during the Covid-19 pandemic.
A single daily service will grow back to three times a day when the market is ready, giving access to 100 global destinations from the Schiphol hub.
The announcement comes on the same week that Teesside International reopened for domestic flights to Aberdeen and Belfast, with London City and Newquay routes coming from July 6.
The airport is continuing discussions with all of its airline partners over the reintroduction of further services over the coming weeks and months.
Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “KLM has been working with Teesside International for years and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to secure this route for another five.
“In signing this deal, KLM has demonstrated once again a huge vote of confidence in our airport and our region.
“This route to Schiphol is well used by our businesses and local people alike, helping them to get worldwide from Teesside, and had been going from strength to strength before the coronavirus pandemic hit.
“This renewed commitment is yet another vote of confidence that our ten year rescue Plan is working despite this unprecedented and difficult time.
“Now we are able to gradually phase back our flight schedule, we’re ready to carry on the momentum we gained at the start of the year, to secure even more domestic and holiday flights.”
KLM UK and Ireland general manager Benedicte Duval added: “Having operated from Teesside for almost 30 years, we are delighted to announce the continuation of our partnership with the airport, even after this challenging period for our industry.
“As borders reopen and travel restrictions begin to ease, we look forward to continuing to serve our business and leisure travellers in the region, offering worldwide connectivity from the comfort of their local airport.
“Safety is a prerequisite as we resume travel and as we all adapt to our 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.”