A NEW flight route from Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has been announced which will improve connectivity to Ireland and North America.
By Chelsie Sewell @journochelsDigital Reporter
The route operated by Aer Lingus and franchised by Emerald Airlines will commence on March 17, 2022 under the name Aer Lingus Regional. It will provide more flights from LBA to Dublin, making it easier for people to access the US.
Emerald Airlines will be flying over 340 flights per week across 11 routes with fares starting at £25.99.
Vincent Hodder, CEO of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “This is an exciting new offering to a popular destination for the people of Yorkshire.
Emerald Airline is a welcome addition to LBA’s fight schedule and will offer fantastic connectivity between the North of England and Ireland, as well as open a window of connectivity into North America with pre-clearance offered in Dublin.
“We’re delighted to see a new airline start up and we look forward to welcoming Emerald Airline passengers in April 22.”
Aer Lingus recently announced an ambitious schedule for Summer 2022, which reflects the airline’s goal to build to pre-pandemic levels of flying and anticipates continued momentum in customer demand.
Lynne Embleton, Aer Lingus CEO, said: “Today is about opportunities. Opportunities for our UK customers to connect with ease to Aer Lingus flights to North America and to take advantage of the US preclearance facility.
“Opportunities for customers across UK and Ireland as we develop the Aer Lingus regional network. And opportunities for the Irish economy and Irish aviation as we expand our hub at Dublin.”
High-frequency routes, including Dublin-Edinburgh and Dublin-Glasgow, will be served up to 4 times daily.
Conor McCarthy, Emerald Airlines CEO, said: “We’re delighted to be able to commence operations under our franchise agreement with Aer Lingus well ahead of plan in line with the recovering customer demand.
“The time is right for Emerald Airlines to begin operations under the Aer Lingus Regional brand and we truly look forward to welcoming our customers onboard our flights as soon as February next.
“Our customer-focused schedules will offer choice, convenience and great value for both regional and transatlantic air travel.”
The announcement sees the re-establishment of services to regional points across the U.K including Newquay Cornwall, Exeter and Isle of Man. Emerald Airlines will be the only airline offering these services from Ireland.
For more information on fares and flight times, and to book visit aerlingus.com.
