The first Aer Arann and Aer Lingus franchise flight from Manchester to Shannon took to the skies yesterday; just over four weeks after the new service was announced. 

From today Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Aer Arann, will provide direct flights to Shannon from Manchester seven days per week.

Commenting on the new service Aer Arann Corporate Affairs Director Andrew Kelly said “Today signifies a new chapter both for us and for our franchise partner, and indeed for Manchester as we celebrate the first flight to Shannon under this franchise agreement.

We hope that over the coming months more and more passengers will take advantage of the choice, flexibility and convenience that this service has to offer” he added.

Andrew Harrison, Manchester Airport’s Commercial Director said: “We’re very excited that the first franchise flight from Aer Arann and Aer Lingus is taking off from Manchester.  I’m sure the daily service to a very popular destination will be a great success”