Aer Lingus launches first direct transatlantic flights from Manchester

The JFK and Boston routes will be operated by the new single-aisle Airbus A321LR, making Aer Lingus the first airline to operate the aircraft on regular scheduled services between the UK and the US.

Services to Orlando and Barbados will be operated by a larger Airbus A330-300.

Aer Lingus said its fares in both business class and economy class would be “highly competitive”, with summer fares starting from £199 each way, as part of a return journey.

Aer Lingus will create up to 120 job opportunities in the north of England. Recruitment will be predominantly for cabin crew roles, together with additional positions within maintenance and engineering, and ground operations.

The New York JFK and Boston services will serve 58 onward destinations, with a schedule designed to maximise onward connectivity to destinations such as Las Vegas, Nashville and Jamaica, and for the first time from Manchester to San Jose, Bermuda and Dallas.

David Shepherd, Aer Lingus chief commercial officer, said: “Aer Lingus has been flying to North America for more than 60 years and we also have a proud history with Manchester airport.

“We believe our transatlantic offering is one of the best in the marketplace.”

Karen Smart, Manchester airport managing director, added: “These routes will be a great addition to the departure boards here at Manchester as we look forward to restarting international travel.

“This demonstration of pent-up demand is another reason why it is more important than ever that the government develops proposals to restart travel that are clear, uncomplicated and affordable. We eagerly await the findings of the Global Travel Taskforce in April.”

The airline’s Book with Confidence offer has been extended to 31 December 2021 allowing customers to change their flights up to two hours before they are due to depart with no change fee.

All flights will soon be available for purchase through British Airways and British Airways Holidays.

Flights from Manchester to the United States and Barbados are operated by Aer Lingus (UK) Limited. Flights from Manchester to the United States are for United Kingdom-originating traffic only. Sales are not available to persons in the United States.