FLIGHTS from Birmingham to Belfast City airport have been restored, five months after the collapse of Flybe.
Stobart Air will open a new base at Belfast City, serving former Flybe routes.
The direct connection from Birmingham International to Belfast City will be in place by September, airport bosses pledged.
Currently, EasyJet provides the only other route from Birmingham to Northern Ireland, serving Belfast International.
Four return flights a day are planned by Stobart Air, under Aer Lingus Regional branding.
Tom Screen, Aviation Director at Birmingham Airport, said: “Belfast City is such a popular route from the Midlands so we are delighted to receive the news that Stobart Air has chosen to expand its network into Birmingham.”
“After such a challenging year, we are delighted to receive the news that Stobart Air has chosen to expand its network into Birmingham, and we look forward to welcoming the flights starting in September.”
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 Birmingham Airport, along with our partners, Aer Lingus we are pleased to establish a base at Belfast City to service flights to Birmingham.
“High frequency day-return flights from Birmingham 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 Birmingham from 14 September.”
Stobart Air added: “To ensure the wellbeing of our passengers and crew, enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures have been introduced for the aircraft cabin, which are in addition to the existing aircraft cleaning schedule. Each aircraft, including seats, armrests and tray tables will be subject to a daily disinfection process which provides surface protection from viruses for 24 hours.”
