New Jersey-to-Belfast route with Aer Lingus takes off

Thursday 11 May 2023

Flights between Jersey and Belfast City have had take-off, as Aer Lingus launches a summer service with its regional operator.

On May 6, the first service, operated by by Emerald Airlines on behalf of Aer Lingus Regional, took flight from Jersey's Airport.

The twice-weekly service will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer, offering an estimated 6,000 seats.

When the route was announced in October 2022, Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said the news was a "sign of confidence in Jersey as an attractive destination".

He added: "This new air link will provide great holiday opportunities in both directions and will enable Island businesses to explore new opportunities."

Pictured: Jersey Airport has been adding new routes as it bounces back from the pandemic.

Ports of Jersey's Chief Executive, Matt Thomas, also said at the time: "It is a great vote of confidence in our future that airlines are offering new routes and improving our connectivity. We already have a successful link with Dublin, and this route will strengthen our connections and expand travel options for both Islanders and visitors."

The Belfast City service is the latest in a series of new destinations now accessible directly from Jersey Airport.

Recently, easyJet began its direct flights to Amsterdam and Express reported yesterday that London Southend Airport bosses were in "detailed discussions" about the return of a route between the Channel Islands and East London.

Jersey has been adding to its routes as part of a post-pandemic bounceback, with passenger demand and footfall rising faster than similar-sized UK airports.

In early 2022, passenger figures were at 65% of what they were before the pandemic struck, with further rises expected.