Aer Lingus's first Manchester to New York JFK flight and Ryanair's first Derry to Manchester flight have taken off.
Aer Lingus Statement
In a statement published on its website, Aer Lingus said, "Aer Lingus has today celebrated the launch of its very first direct flight, EI45, from Manchester to New York, JFK as the airline expands its transatlantic services for customers from the UK and marks its first direct flight between the UK and the United States.
"The Irish flag carrier is also gearing up to prepare for the inaugural service from Manchester to Orlando in Florida on 11th December.
"The two new routes are part of the airline's ambitious schedule plans for 2022.
"Reid Moody, Aer Lingus Chief Strategy and Planning Officer, said, 'Today marks a very important day for Aer Lingus, as we launch our first flights from the UK to the United States as we recover and expand our transatlantic network.
"'It also marks another momentous moment for our new services from Manchester direct to the US, with flights to Orlando set to depart on their inaugural service on 11th December.
"'Our New York and Orlando routes follow the launch of our new direct flights to Barbados on 20th October, which will run until April 2022, before returning the following winter.'
"Karen Smart, Manchester Airport Managing Director, said, 'It's incredibly pleasing to see Aer Lingus launch its New York service, which will give passengers more choice when looking to travel to what is one of our most popular destinations.
"'The fact Aer Lingus has chosen Manchester Airport as its first UK base for transatlantic flights is a great boost for the region, creating hundreds of jobs in the process.
"'Aer Lingus' transatlantic routes will no doubt be hugely popular with the 22 million people that live in our catchment area, especially now the US has opened up to British travellers.
"'I look forward to working closely with Aer Lingus as they grow from Manchester Airport.'
"An Innovative and Sustainable Travel Experience
"From 3rd December, passengers flying Aer Lingus to JFK will experience the new Airbus A321LR single aisle aircraft. The new state-of-the-art aircraft promises a more innovative and sustainable travel experience, boasting greater fuel-efficiency, with a 15% reduction in fuel burn, compared to a A321CEO and a 50% reduction in noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft. Offering both a Business Class cabin with 16 fully lie-flat seats, fine dining and complimentary wi-fi, and an Economy Class cabin with complimentary meal and snack and soft drink in-flight, and top inflight entertainment, including the latest movie releases, TV boxsets, games and music.
"Rediscover New York and Orlando
"Flights to New York for those looking to visit the excitement of Manhattan and surrounding boroughs, depart daily at 12:35 and arrive into New York's iconic JFK airport at 16:15 local time. Fares start from £179 each way in economy class and from £1,550 each way in business class (including taxes and charges).
"Holidaymakers wanting to visit the 'Sunshine State' of Florida, can choose from four weekly flights from Manchester to Orlando, with fares starting from £209 each way (including taxes and charges), departing each day at 11:00 every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
"Upon arrival in the US, customers who travel on the New York service will be immediately immersed in the magic of the city that never sleeps, and can visit some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, including The Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the famous Rockefeller Center as well as taking in a Broadway show or shopping until they drop.
"Likewise, those travelling to Orlando will be able to indulge in the year-round sunshine and beauty of Florida, while thrill seekers can enjoy the excitement of taking a trip to theme parks, such as Disneyland and Universal Studios.
"In order to make travel easier, Aer Lingus has partnered with VeriFLY. By downloading the VeriFLY app and uploading COVID-19 related documentation required for their destination, Aer Lingus customers can ensure that all of their COVID-19 related documentation is verified before travel.
"For fares and further information about flights to New York, Orlando and Barbados, and US travel requirements please visit www.aerlingus.com."
Ryanair's Derry To Manchester Flight
As reported by The Belfast Telegraph, the first Ryanair flight from City of Derry Airport to Manchester took off on Wednesday December 1.
Aer Lingus Extends Its 'Book With Confidence' Policy
Additionally, in a separate statement published on its website, Aer Lingus said, "Aer Lingus has announced that it will update its 'Book with Confidence' policy for bookings until 31st of January 2022, to allow customers with upcoming bookings on any fare type to change their travel dates free of charge up to two hours before they travel* and as many times as they wish.
"The airline's market leading policy, initially introduced last year, continues to help customers navigate through the changing travel restrictions, giving customers confidence to plan trips with the added reassurance that they can change their travel plans at no extra cost.
"Bill Byrne Senior Vice President of Global Sales for Aer Lingus said, 'Our 'Book with Confidence' Policy is one of the most compelling reassurance offers in the market. The update to our policy will provide even more last-minute flexibility and gives our customers additional confidence, knowing they won’t lose money if their travel plans change.'
"The existing flexible booking policy** continues to be available on all bookings post 31st January up until 30th September 2022.
"Aer Lingus is also encouraging all customers due to travel to use the VeriFLY app, which allows them to very easily upload their travel documents and have them checked and approved before they leave for the airport.
"The airline has also introduced an interactive tool on aerlingus.com which allows Aer Lingus customers to search destinations and retrieve up-to-date tailored travel information based on their specific circumstances including vaccination status and testing requirements.
"For more information on Aer Lingus’ flexible booking options please visit aerlingus.com...
"*A fare difference may apply.
"**Aer Lingus 'Book with Confidence' Policy".
© 2021 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
