Aer Lingus has begun its first Caribbean flights from the UK today with the airline’s first service from Manchester to Bridgetown departing this morning.
The inaugural flight is Aer Lingus’ first Caribbean route from the UK and will also be aimed at Irish travellers changing in Manchester with connectivity from Dublin, Belfast, and Cork.
Flights will begin twice weekly but increase to three times per week next month.
Barbados’ minister of tourism and international transport, Senator Lisa Cummins, will be at Bridgetown airport to receive the flight when it lands.
She said: “Manchester airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK and is easily accessible from across northern England and Scotland, by road, air and rail.”
Customers checking in for their flights to Barbados at Manchester this morning were treated to a live performance from steel pan band, Band One.
Cheryl Carter, director of UK and Ireland for Visit Barbados, said: “This new service, from one of the busiest airports in the UK, will offer even more connectivity options for UK holidaymakers, business travellers and residents.
“We look forward to welcoming these passengers to the island.”