Aer Arann and Aer Lingus have announced the addition of new services between Manchester and Cork in the latest development of the franchise agreement between the two airlines.

From October 31st 2010, Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Aer Arann, will provide additional flights to Cork from Manchester and Birmingham that will effectively double the number of services on each route.  The increased frequency means that the Manchester service will operate twice a day seven days per week.

The new schedule will offer business customers the frequency required to spend a full business day in Cork and it will offer additional choice for leisure passengers.

Commenting on the announcement, Aer Arann Corporate Affairs Director Andrew Kelly said “We are delighted to launch these flights as part of the franchise agreement in the same week that we launched new franchise services from Manchester to Shannon.”

“The addition of these new services will offer passengers travelling to and from each of these destinations greater choice, flexibility and convenience” he added.

Also commenting on the announcement, Aer Lingus Director of Communications Declan Kearney said “Aer Lingus Regional services have enjoyed strong support from customers in the short time since their launch. Aer Lingus welcomes the introduction of these additional services from Cork and wishes Aer Arann continued success.”

Manchester Airport’s Commercial Director, Andrew Harrison said, “Again this is very good news for us, our passengers and the North West region. This double daily service to a great destination like Cork will do very well with not only our leisure passengers but our business passengers alike”