Regional airline Air Southwest has announced the introduction of an additional aircraft in a bid to reinforce operational reliability and flexibility on its route network.

The airline, which operates routes from the South West to London, Bristol, Manchester and Jersey, has secured a third Dash 8 from Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier. The 311 series Dash 8 was flown from West Virginia in the US to Air Southwest’s home base in Plymouth by chief pilot Nigel Humphries and first officer Robert Crocker. After its arrival in Plymouth, the new aircraft underwent final preparations before going into service.

“We’re delighted to be taking delivery of another Dash 8 and it demonstrates our commitment to providing customers with a fast, efficient, reliable and punctual service,” says Malcolm Naylor, managing director at Air Southwest.