Passengers were treated to a surprise celebration as they boarded new flights from Newcastle Airport.

The special send-off marked the launch of Jet2.com's latest routes to Budapest and Marrakech, with the airline's first flight to the Hungarian capital departing on October 9.

Services will now operate every Thursday and Sunday, while flights to Marrakech began the following day and will run every Tuesday and Friday.

Leon McQuaid, director of aviation development at Newcastle Airport, said: "We are delighted that Jet2.com has further strengthened its commitment to Newcastle Airport with the launch of new routes to Budapest and Marrakech.

"These new services provide our passengers with even more choice and reflect the growing demand for connectivity from the North East to destinations across the world.

"It was fantastic to celebrate the first flights with Jet2.com and our passengers, and we are confident both destinations will be hugely popular."

To celebrate the launch, passengers were surprised at the boarding gates with complimentary drinks, sweet treats, and city guides.

The areas were decorated with balloons and artwork featuring iconic landmarks from both destinations.

Since going on sale, both destinations have seen strong customer demand, reflecting a growing appetite for city breaks and winter sun escapes from the North East.

A spokesperson for Jet2.com said: "Since going on sale with these new routes to Marrakech and Budapest from Newcastle Airport, we have experienced a phenomenal reaction with customers jumping at the chance to book our award-winning flights and holidays.

"We are very excited to be giving holidaymakers in the region even more choice, as well as the opportunity to explore these incredible destinations.

"It is fantastic to be waving off our first flights, and we have no doubt they will be in high demand."

Budapest, known for its historic sites and winter charm, is especially popular during the festive season for its Christmas markets and one of Europe's oldest open-air ice rinks.

Marrakech, the 'Red City,' offers visitors a taste of sunshine and culture with its palaces, bustling souks, and distinctive terracotta architecture.

Flights and holidays to both destinations can be booked through the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.com websites or via local travel agents.

Passengers get surprise celebration as new flights take off from Newcastle Airport