Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline and the UK’s Number One Domestic airline, has today announced a new route between Belfast and Manston. This is the second route that will be operated by Flybe out of Manston airport, providing customers with a direct route to the heart of the Northern Ireland capital.

The summer service will run three times a week and begin on the 26th May. Flights are available for booking now at www.flybe.com with fares from just £29.99 one way, including taxes and charges.

Flybe’s popular service between Manston and Edinburgh is set to continue, however Flybe has taken the decision to suspend its service to Manchester from Monday April 4th as passenger numbers made the flight economically and environmentally hard to justify. However, Flybe remains committed to developing its route network from Manston and is continuing to work with the airport to bring travel choice to the people of Kent and the south east of England.

SCHEDULE

Belfast to Manston

·      Flights on a Tuesday and Thursday will depart Belfast City at 1140 and arrive in Manston at 1320

·      On Sundays, flights depart Belfast City at 1045 and arrive in Manston at 1225

Manston to Belfast

·      Flights on a Tuesday and Thursday will depart Manston at 1345 and arrive in Belfast at 1525

·      On Sundays, flights depart Manston at 1250 and arrive in Belfast at 1430

Mike Rutter, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer said: “We’re delighted to be adding this new service between Belfast and Manston, providing passengers with a quick and direct route between South East England and Northern Ireland. Whilst the service to Manchester has unfortunately proved unsustainable, we’ve been delighted with the support shown by travellers to and from the region on the Manston-Edinburgh route and remain committed to developing our route network from Manston.”

Charles Buchanan, CEO of Manston Airport said: “We are pleased that Flybe have reinforced their commitment to Manston with the announcement of a Belfast City service.  Initially this will be three times a week but will hopefully increase as demand grows and aircraft become available. Sadly, despite the best efforts of both the Manston Airport team and Flybe, the Manchester route has not proved sustainable; however we are confident that Belfast will attract more passengers.”