Regional airports can play a vital role in ensuring connectivity for local communities, businesses and tourism. As an upcoming example, the launch of KLM’s new daily service from Exeter Airport (EXT) to Amsterdam Schiphol on 30 March is expected to improve regional connectivity while benefitting both travellers and the local economy.
The UK’s aviation strategy often centres on expanding major hubs like Heathrow and Gatwick, with investment and policy decisions often prioritising these large airports. While these hubs provide extensive international connections, their congestion, environmental impact, and the need for long-distance travel for passengers outside the South East highlight the need for a balanced approach to aviation infrastructure.
In the South West, the introduction of KLM’s Exeter service will provide a direct link to one of Europe’s major transport hubs, allowing passengers to access a wide range of global destinations. Schiphol’s extensive network means that travellers will be able to reach locations across Europe, North America, and Asia with a single connection, offering an alternative to travelling via London’s airports.
Initial booking data has already highlighted the demand for both inbound and outbound travel on this route. Visitors from the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and the United States are among the top nationalities booking flights to Exeter, suggesting that improved air links can support local tourism and business development.
For those departing from Exeter, onward travel through Amsterdam offers convenient access to destinations such as Croatia, Norway, New York, France, and Sweden. Notably, Hong Kong has emerged as a key long-haul destination, demonstrating the importance of efficient international connections for both leisure and business travellers.
Improved regional air connectivity has broader economic implications. A well-connected airport can help attract investment, support local businesses, and create employment opportunities. Businesses benefit from greater access to international markets, while local tourism can see a boost from increased visitor numbers.
Exeter Airport Managing Director Stephen Wiltshire said:We are delighted with the response to KLM’s new service, which will provide greater choice and connectivity for travellers to and from the South West. The demand we are seeing for both inbound and outbound travel is testament to the vital role that regional airports play in boosting connectivity for leisure and business, and we look forward to welcoming passengers on board from 30th March.
The KLM service will be operated by KLM Cityhopper, using an 88-seat Embraer 175. The availability of Economy and Business Class options, as well as Premium Comfort on long-haul flights, provides a flexible range of travel choices for passengers.
The Future of Regional Air Connectivity
As more regional airports seek to expand their route networks, the success of the KLM service from Exeter will be closely watched. Enhancing access to international hubs like Amsterdam can make regional travel more efficient, reducing reliance on major London airports and offering greater convenience for passengers.
While expansion plans at Heathrow and Gatwick continue to dominate the national conversation, improved regional connectivity could provide a more sustainable and equitable solution for UK aviation. A more decentralised approach, where regional airports are integrated into global networks, could reduce congestion at major hubs and provide greater economic benefits to regions outside London.
The launch of KLM’s new service hopes to demonstrate how improved regional connectivity can contribute to a more balanced national transport network. With demand for direct international links growing, regional airports have an important role to play in shaping the future of UK aviation.
Jerome Salemi, General Manager for UK & Ireland at Air France-KLM, said:The early booking trends are extremely promising, and we are delighted to see such a strong response from both local travellers and international visitors. Amsterdam Schiphol is one of the world’s leading hubs and this new route reinforces our commitment to providing global connectivity from the UK regions.
