The introduction of the aircraft means that Thomas Cook has reintroduced flights to Bourgas in Bulgaria.

Extra weekly flights will also operate to other holiday destinations such as Paphos, Larnaca, Dalaman, Izmir, Mahon, Ibiza, Palma and Tenerife.

The new aircraft will offer around 70,000 extra seats throughout the summer season, taking the total number of seats available for holidaymakers to around 300,000.

Ian Derbyshire, chief executive officer at Thomas Cook UK & Ireland, said: “This underlines our commitment to the North East and to Newcastle International Airport.

“We are particularly pleased to have made this happen on the back of the problems caused by the recession and the ash cloud crisis. The region has always been strong for us and we see that continuing in the future.”

By Bev Fearis