Leeds Bradford airport regains Southampton air link

Channel Islands airline Blue Islands is to re-establish an air link between Southampton and Leeds Bradford airports next year.

Twice-daily flights have been scheduled from March 29 with one-way fares starting at £69.99.

The new service will be operated by a 70-seat ATR aircraft.

The route was last flown by Eastern Airways until 2022 after the withdrawal of a Flybe service in 2014. First Southampton service to the Yorkshire airport was by Capital Airlines in 1989.

Blue Islands chief executive Rob Veron said: “We’re proud to have operated services from Southampton for over 15 years, with up to six daily flights linking the south coast and the Channel Islands. 

“As one of Southampton airport’s longest-serving partners, this new route to Leeds Bradford is another important step in our ongoing commitment to the airport and its role as a south coast hub. 

“Our twice-daily schedule means business travellers can now enjoy efficient same-day returns, without the lengthy train journeys and multiple changes. While for leisure travellers, Yorkshire’s rich experiences across incredible countryside and historic cities are now easily accessible.” 

Leeds Bradford airport aviation director Declan Maguire added: “We’re delighted to welcome Blue Islands to Leeds Bradford and to introduce this new year-round service linking Yorkshire with the south coast and Channel Islands. 

“These routes provide more choice and flexibility for our passengers, whether they’re travelling for business, holidays, or heading to Southampton to begin a cruise. 

“The schedule has been thoughtfully designed to offer convenient timings and seamless same-plane connections, making it easier than ever for people across our region to reach these fantastic destinations.”