New airline offers Manx connections

A new airline is to offer connections between the Isle of Man and mainland destinations Leeds, Belfast and Blackpool.

Manx2 has been launched by entrepreneurs Noel Hayes and James Filleul, who have experience of operating airlines serving island communities.

They set up the Rockhopper airline (now called Blue Islands), which serves the Channel Islands.

Manx2 will offer up to three flights daily between the Isle of Man and Leeds Bradford Airport, with service commencing on August 12; bookings can be made from the start of June.

As well as the Yorkshire connection, Manx2 will begin services to Belfast International Airport and Blackpool. The firm will operate small 19-seater aircraft and will look to combine "the best practices of 'low cost' carriers with the friendly service our passengers rightly expect".

Noel Hayes, the company chairman, said: "We have many years' experience in building strong routes which will serve local people all year round.”

Noting the gap in the market for a link between the Isle of Man and Leeds, he added: "The two communities have strong ties, but no longer an air link and we think the new route will be very popular not only for business people, but leisure visitors as well."

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