Irish regional airline, Aer Arann is starting a new three times daily service from the Isle of Man to London City Airport, starting 19 January 2009.

The move restores one of the most important air services for the island, following the closure of the airlines EuroManx in May this year. It aims to boost the Isle of Man’s finance sector, enabling travellers a full day’s work in the Capital.“From the start of next year, regular flights will be available to London’s premier business airport,  less than four miles from London’s commercial and financial heartland at Canary Wharf,” commented Isle of Man Airport Director Ann Reynolds.

The Aer Arann Isle of Man route will also bring another first to London City Airport as its debuts the 72-seat ATR72-500.  It will be the first of its type to operate into London City.

“The Isle of Man to London City route has performed consistently well since it commenced in 2000, carrying an average of 5,500 passengers per month flying between the two airports in 2007,” said Ann Reynolds. “Although VLM has continued to operate its daily service originating from London, the monthly average has recently dropped to less than 1,000 passengers.  We know that Isle of Man business and commerce have suffered substantially without the frequent service to London City and, despite the economic situation, there is still heavy demand for the route.”
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