London flights from Leeds Bradford Airport resume
British Airways has begun operating flights from Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) to Heathrow.
It is the first time direct flights have embarked from West Yorkshire to the capital since Flybe dropped its Gatwick service in March 2011.
Eight flights a day on 160-seater jets will operate between LBA and Heathrow with single fares starting at £42.
BA decided to make its move following what was described as "hard lobbying" by local businesses.
Leeds lawyer Chris Booth was one of those who led a campaign for the flights.
He said: "Everybody hopes this will work because if it does we all stand to gain - not only those in the Yorkshire region but those who are visiting the area as well, whether on a business or a leisure basis.
"So fingers crossed that it will work, and I genuinely think it will."
Tony Hallwood, the commercial director at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: "We believe there will be lots of support from our local businesses in the region for this.
"We have every intention of growing the number of flights. And British Airways have said that if the business is here they will deliver it."
The airport's chief executive John Parkin added: "This new service is a significant milestone for Leeds Bradford Airport.
"I urge businesses to take advantage of British Airways' global network to stimulate further economic growth for the Leeds city region."