FLIGHTS from Southampton to Blackpool have been axed after the route flopped with passengers.

Fledgling carrier Jetstream Express suddenly pulled the plug at the weekend.

A new fast-transit business airline Jetstream Express aimed to launch the five-times-a-week service in June and had ambitions to quickly increase frequency.

Bosses also hoped the 57 a ticket route, which put Blackpool's world famous beach within an hour's travel from Southampton, would act as a springboard for other destinations.

Operated by business charter firm Jetstream Executive Travel, which operates a fleet of 19-seater modern Jetstream 31 aircraft, the firm had hoped to attract leisure travellers attracted by the fun of the seaside and the natural attractions of the nearby Lake District.

When the route was launched Jetstream Express director John Hardcastle said: "All the market research we have done in the last six months shows us there is a business and leisure market crying out for something up there more than just Manchester.

"There is a lot of business potential going either way."

Today visitors to their website are told: "With immediate effect, Jetstream Express have ceased operating the routes to Blackpool, Aberdeen, Southampton and Belfast.

"We regret this action and the inconvenience it may cause but these routes have not proved viable."

A spokesman emphasised the company was still in operation and customers would get fares refunded.

He said: "The company still exists, it has not gone into liquidation. All the passengers are being contacted to be offered refunds. That's the only statement at this time."