The two companies have signed heads of terms agreements as the first step in a five-year franchise partnership which will see Eastern operate its scheduled route network under the Flybe brand.

In addition there will be a joint revenue and risk sharing agreement to cover four Eastern aircraft flying six existing Flybe routes from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

Although the final contracting is only scheduled for completion in the next few weeks, tickets are going on sale today with one-way fares leading in at £49.46 with travel starting from September 1.

Flybe chief executive Christine Ourmieres-Widener said: “This alliance with Eastern Airways is an excellent opportunity to strengthen the Flybe network.

“We already operate flights at a number of common airports and this will enable passengers to connect to a greater number of destinations, across the UK and into Europe, all booked through flybe.com.”

Eastern Airways chief executive Richard Lake added: “This alliance will benefit both airlines as not only does it strengthen Flybe’s network, but broadens our distribution and enhances connection opportunities for our customers through its global airline association. 

“We have specialised in fixed-wing flying in the oil and gas market for many years and our expertise will provide a greater opportunity to further develop offshore connectivity to Flybe’s network.”