AirSouthwest has underlined its commitment to the South West of England’s air links with the early launch of its summer 2009 flight schedules.

The airline, which flies from Plymouth, Newquay and Bristol airports, is encouraging travellers to and from the South West to book early in order to secure its lowest prices.

Air Southwest deputy chief executive Mike Coombes commented: “In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever that we offer our customers low fares, with no hidden extras. Our pricing policy is very simple - the earlier you book, the lower the fare.  So by making our summer 2009 flights bookable now, we are giving our customers plenty of time to grab a bargain flight.”

The airline is also claiming that the launch of its summer 2009 schedules is good news for tourism in the region.

Mr Coombes added:  “With people all over the UK feeling the pinch in their wallets, I firmly believe that places like Devon and Cornwall, the destinations of childhood memories, will be a popular choice for summer 2009, as people shun expensive foreign breaks.”

Air Southwest flies year-round from Newquay Cornwall Airport to London Gatwick, Manchester, Leeds-Bradford Airport, Glasgow Airport, Newcastle, Bristol, Cork and Dublin.

At Plymouth City Airport, the airline offers year-round flights to London Gatwick, Manchester Airport, Leeds-Bradford, Glasgow, Newcastle Airport, Bristol, Cork, Dublin and Jersey.

From Bristol, Air Southwest serves Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Newquay and Plymouth.