The announcement means that people in Dundee and surrounding areas will be able to continue to enjoy the benefits of direct flights to London.

It will also support local jobs and businesses markets across the country.

The route is supported by the Public Service Obligation (PSO) which protects routes that boost tourism, connects the UK and encourages economic growth, and backed by UK government funding.

Airline Loganair has been chosen by Dundee County Council to run the flights along the route, which will run from Dundee Airport to Stansted 11 times per week. 

The airline has also committed to increasing the size of the planes on the route from a 33 seater aircraft to a 48 seater in May, meaning more people will be able to benefit from the flights.

Paul Maynard, UK aviation minister made the announcement today. He said: “I am pleased to announce the extension of the London to Dundee route into 2020. This decision supports jobs and allows businesses to access global markets - as well as connecting friends and family. This is another example of how the UK government is delivering for Dundee and the surrounding region.

“The renewal of funding is a clear demonstration of this government’s commitment to strengthen the vital ties between Scotland and the rest of the UK and our ambition for a thriving economy across the whole of the UK.”

Colin Clark, UK government Minister for Scotland, said: “I am pleased to see flights between Dundee and London continuing. This provides vital connectivity between Scotland and England and improves the choices available to consumers.

“This announcement shows how the UK government is committed to supporting economic growth in Dundee and the wider region – an area into which we are investing a transformative £150 million through the Tay Cities Deal and have provided £5m for the opening of the innovative V&A Dundee. These flights will help more people enjoy what this fantastic part of Scotland has to offer.”

The PSO reiterates the UK government’s continued support for the regeneration of Dundee and the wider Tayside region. This includes the UK government committing £150m to the Tay Cities Deal.