The additions supplement the airline’s existing Isle of Man flights. The new routes mark the first-ever link between City of Derry Airport and Heathrow, connect Sumburgh and Heathrow, and restore air links between Heathrow and Dundee after 40 years.

Loganair’s chief executive Jonathan Hinkles and Heathrow’s aviation director, Joanna Taso attended a special gate party at Terminal 2 on Thursday as the airline welcomed passengers onboard its 9.45am inaugural flight to Shetland.

Mr Hinkles said: “These routes really take Loganair’s provision of regional connectivity to new heights and underline our credentials as the UK’s largest regional airline. We’re very grateful to the UK government and BA for their support in securing these slots for domestic connectivity and it was great to see so many happy passengers boarding the new services today.

“Maintaining and improving regional connectivity is one of the main levers of a powerful economy and with these new routes we’re offering business connections into the heart of London from some of the most remote communities in the UK.

“Likewise, we’ve opened the door to enhanced tourism for places like Derry, Dundee, Shetland and Orkney, while also giving all our passengers access to the incredible onward connections on offer at Heathrow. It truly is a game changer for regional commercial aviation.”

Ms Taso added: “We are delighted to be celebrating the inaugural Heathrow to Sumburgh via Dundee departure. Loganair’s new domestic routes to Dundee and the City of Derry will open up lifeline connectivity and global business opportunities via Heathrow, the UK’s gateway to the world.

“Their expanded operations are supported by our domestic passenger discount and demonstrate Heathrow’s longstanding commitment to regional connectivity.”

Dr Liz Cameron, director & chief executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “Enabling the people and businesses of Shetland to use their local airport to fly worldwide for the first time will be transformative. New connections are vital to ensure all of Scotland can benefit from the over 200 global destinations that Heathrow has to offer.

“We look forward to working with Loganair and Heathrow to help ensure the longevity of these routes and maximise the investment, trade and tourism opportunities that improved connectivity can bring.”

Liz Henderson, director of membership and events at London Chamber of Commerce, said: “Sustainable aviation is vital for British business to grow jobs and the economy across the United Kingdom and overseas. Loganair’s new Heathrow routes achieve that by boosting connectivity across key regions in the UK, ranging from traditional business and tourism centres to some of the country’s most remote destinations.”