The Leeds/Bradford and London air link has been preserved after BMI withdrew its flights to Heathrow.

After a short interruption this summer Flybe is to retain the connection between the Yorkshire based airport and Gatwick.

The service will run from 29 June three times a week.

According to the regional carrier up to 300 jobs will be created at Leeds/Bradford and twenty direct Flybe jobs at Gatwick.

Mike Rutter, Chief commercial officer said “Air services from London Gatwick to Leeds Bradford are of great strategic importance to Yorkshire and the North in general and we’re delighted to be able to fill the gap and introduce a service to London so soon after BMI abandoned their service.

“The new service demonstrates Flybe’s commitment to the region, continuing to help the local economy through the development of affordable and convenient business and leisure travel options.

“We stepped in to provide air links to London when other operators walked away from Newcastle and Aberdeen and are now getting a bit of a reputation as the airline that comes to the rescue of regions.”

Leeds/Bradford airport’s commercial director said “This is fantastic news for the city of Leeds and the West Yorkshire region.

“We welcome the introduction of Flybe services to London Gatwick which will once again provide a valuable air link to the capital for business and leisure travellers.

“We also look forward to working with our regional tourism partners to encourage an increase in the number of visitors to the Yorkshire region from London and the South East.”