A NEW daily route is set to be introduced from Leeds-Bradford Airport (LBA) come this Autumn.

Aer Lingus Regional, which is operated by Stobart Air, announced it will fly from the Yeadon-based airport to Belfast City Airport from October 1.

There will be up to three daily return flights.

Stobart Air will base five of its ATR72-600 aircrafts at Belfast City Airport as part of the arrangement.

The move sees the airline double its involvement at LBA, with it already operating a route to and from Dublin.

John Cunliffe, Aviation & Commercial Director for Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Aer Lingus Regional in launching daily flights to Belfast City Airport from October.

"The connection between the two great cities of Leeds and Belfast is an important one for both leisure and business, with passengers benefitting from the option of returning the same day.

"This route perfectly complements our daily flights to Dublin and we’re looking forward to welcoming passengers to LBA in Autumn."

Stobart Air has implemented a number of enhanced health and safety measures in order to protect staff, crew and passengers.

The measures follow guidance from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

They include: enhanced aircraft cleaning, adherence to mandatory face mask rules, suspension of the in-flight service to begin with, and passengers encouraged to stay seated while on board.

Stobart Air Managing Director, Andy Jolly, said: “As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, Stobart Air has been challenged and we have worked hard over the past number of months to protect our airline and to position us for the future, once restrictions ease and passenger demand increases.

“Working with Belfast City Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport, along with our partners, Aer Lingus Regional we are pleased to establish a base at Belfast City to service flights to Leeds Bradford.

“High frequency day-return flights from Leeds Bradford to Belfast City Airport will cater for both business and leisure travellers for direct, convenient and cost-effective flights.

“We continuously strive to provide our passengers with frequent, convenient and affordable services. We look forward to welcoming our passengers on board this new route from Leeds Bradford from 1 October.”

Flights from LBA to Belfast start from £34.99 one way, including taxes, and are on sale now.