Bristol Airport has said that Stagecoach South West has launched a new service – Falcon, the first dedicated 24/7 coach service connecting major locations across the South West.

Claimed as a cost effective alternative to the train, the Falcon service will start on Sunday, February 14 and will operate 19 journeys a day, seven days a week between Plymouth, Exeter, Taunton, Bristol Airport and Bristol City Centre, both day and night.

In celebrating the launch, single and return journeys will initially cost just £1 from February 14 to 27. From the end of February, normal fares will apply, which include £5 return journeys anywhere along the route for under 25’s and OAP’s and adult returns from £7.50. All return fares are valid for up to 28 days. Weekly and monthly ticket options for regular commuters will also be available, with prices starting from £20 a week.

Bob Dennison, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, said: ‘Falcon is a bold new step in making it easier for people to travel across the region. It’s a ’round the clock’ service between the main towns and cities across the South West plus Bristol Airport.

‘I am confident this new 24/7 connection will prove extremely popular with commuters, University students, shoppers, day trippers and, of course, holidaymakers flying from Bristol.’

Liz Macnaughton, Commercial Manager – Ground Transportation, Bristol Airport said, ‘We are delighted to welcome the Falcon coach service which will give customers from key catchment areas easy access to and from Bristol Airport.

We are committed to working with transport partners on improving surface access to the Airport now and in the future. This is the first time a service will be available to customers from Plymouth, Exeter and Taunton and I am sure it will be a success.’

Falcon will operate up to every hour during the day and at various times overnight, connecting the South West’s main towns and cities as well as a 24 hour service to Bristol International Airport, the region’s busiest transport hub. Journeys are timed to serve the needs of commuters, leisure and holiday travellers. The eight new coaches will all feature free Wi-Fi as well as air conditioning, leather seats and charging sockets.

Tickets, including weekly season tickets, can be bought in cash direct from the driver. A select number of tickets will also be available to pre-book via www.megabus.com, and four week season tickets will be available to buy online at www.stagecoachbus.com, the airport said.