European regional airline Flybe is starting its new year-round daily service to Lyon from Manchester Airport.

The airline has also confirmed it will be adding Chambery as a new destination to its Manchester 2016-17 Winter schedule.

Customers from Manchester will have a direct link to the historic city of Lyon that is renowned as a World Heritage Site and thriving cultural centre.

It is also conveniently positioned for onward travel to Switzerland or Italy with Geneva under two hours’ drive away and Turin just under four.

Chambery flights will operate from December 20th through to March 19th 2017.

Flybe chief revenue officer, Vincent Hodder, commented: “We are excited to be launching our new service to Lyon and as well as expanding our offering to our North West passengers.

“Lyon is an appealing option for both business and leisure travellers with frequent daily flights that give customers the flexibility they need when arranging their travel plans.

“We’re also pleased to announce an expansion to our ski destinations with the addition of Chambery joining our Geneva and Toulouse routes.”

The destination is ideally positioned for not only French resorts but for Swiss and Italian skiing adventures with hundreds of ski resorts within easy reach of the popular French city. 

Stephen Turner, commercial director for Manchester Airport, added: “We’re delighted to see the launch of Flybe’s new daily service to Lyon and the addition to its winter schedule. 

“We’re confident both routes will prove hugely popular with the 22 million people in our catchment area.

“They’re perfect destinations for people looking for a summer city break or even to explore the slopes.”