The move is part of the two Tui-owned companies’ strategy to boost their regional flying programmes and go on sale today.

Karen Switzer, director of aviation planning for Thomson and First Choice, said: “Adding more capacity from Newcastle with the introduction of an additional fortnightly flight to Florida demonstrates our commitment to Newcastle airport and the local area.

“Expanding access to our portfolio of destinations and hotels is a key part of our overall strategy and will enhance the holiday experience for our customers.”

John Irving, business development director at Newcastle airport, added: “We welcome the addition of this extra fortnightly flight from Newcastle making it even easier and convenient to fly around 11,000 holiday-makers from Newcastle to Florida next summer.

“This additional flight follows on the heels of this summer’s extra Cancun flight which will see a similar number of holiday-makers jet away from Newcastle to the Caribbean with Thomson and First Choice.

“Given this strong demand, we hope to see more flights to more destinations in the Caribbean over the next few years.”