FlyBe will launch three new routes from the airport this year to Doncaster-Sheffield, Aberdeen and Leeds Bradford while switching to a 118 seat Embraer aircraft will mean 40 additional seats on each of its thrice-daily Gatwick service.

Meanwhile, Ryanair is returning to the airport with the launch of two flights to Alicante and Frankfurt-Hahn.

Ireland has also become more accessible as Aer Lingus increases the frequency and length of its Dublin service from where travellers can then continue their journeys.

Cornwall Airport Newquay managing director Al Titterington added the removal of the £5 airport development fee for each departing passenger from April should also help drive growth.

He said: “This exciting raft of new routes, increased schedules and additional capacity is great news for Cornwall – and those wishing to visit Cornwall of course.

“We are thrilled with the increase in national and international connectivity that comes with these new flights and look forward to welcoming a growing number of visitors to the county and also to seeing more Cornish residents travel further and more easily than ever before.

“Added to the removal of the Airport Development Fee, we see great times ahead for the airport and the region.

“We encourage those across the travel trade – both leisure and business – to take another look at flying their customers to Cornwall.

“It’s a great holiday destination for those who wish to enjoy a UK holiday and there is a huge amount to experience and enjoy in the region.”