New Italian and Caribbean routes announced at Manchester Airport

British airlines First Choice and Thomson have expanded at Manchester Airport, ramping up capacity on their existing routes and announcing new services connecting the North West with Italy and the Caribbean.

In their Summer 2017 schedules, the carriers have confirmed plans to fly out to two new destinations from Manchester: Olbia in Sardinia and Cayo Santa Maria, off the coast of Cuba.

The airlines will also offer new break packages for Malta and Sal in Cape Verde.

Thomson and First Choice’s director of aviation, Karen Switzer, said: “We are excited to be launching the new summer 2016 route to Cayo Santa Maria exclusively from Manchester airport, which will open up our long haul destinations to even more of our customers.

“The addition of these new routes and durations will give customers in Manchester and the surrounding area more flexibility when deciding on their 2017 summer holiday.”

She added: “Expanding access to our portfolio of destinations and hotels is a key part of our overall strategy and will enhance the holiday experience for our customers.”

Earlier this month, Manchester Airport reported strong March figures to round off a record year in terms of passenger levels.

The airport’s commercial director, Stephen Turner, said the airlines’ decision to expand is “fantastic”.

He added: “The new route to Cayo Santa Maria is testament to the continuing demand for direct, long haul flights from the 22m people in our catchment area.

“We’re very proud to have been chosen by Thomson as the exclusive UK airport for this destination.”

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