DIRECT flights from Yorkshire to Heathrow have been relaunched, providing better connections for the region to long-haul flights.

The four flights a day, timed to connect to worldwide destinations such as Hong Kong, New York, Johannesburg, Singapore and Sydney, were brought back after long negotiations between Leeds Bradford Airport and British Airways.

John Parkin, chief executive of the airport, said: “This new service is a significant milestone for Leeds Bradford Airport and I urge businesses to take advantage of British Airways’ global network to stimulate further economic growth for the Leeds City Region.”

The aircraft was greeted by a water-cannon salute from the fire service and Olympic gold medal boxer Luke Campbell, from Hull, also attended the launch.