The Aer Lingus Regional operator will link the two capital cities five times weekly from 7 July. Flights are now on sale with fares starting from £39.99pp.

Emerald opened its base at Belfast City earlier this year. "Thanks a million to Emerald Airlines for announcing that it will restart the critical connection between Cardiff and Belfast under the Aer Lingus banner,” said Marc Watkins, aviation development manager at Cardiff Airport.

"It’s great that our customers looking to fly between Wales and Northern Ireland no longer have to travel via England."

Ciaran Smith, head of commercial at Emerald Airlines, said: "As we near the peak summer months, the launch of our Cardiff services will provide those travelling to Belfast with more choice when planning their holidays.

"When quick getaways are on the top of everyone’s mind, we are offering convenient timings and low fares, increasing connectivity to and from Northern Ireland."