Chief Minister Allan Bell and Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond have stated this week’s restoration of flights between Ronaldsway and Glasgow is fantastic news for both countries.
Citywing is operating nine return flights a week between Ronaldsway and Glasgow, with 10,000 passengers expected to use the route in its first year.
The Chief Minister headed a Manx delegation comprising Infrastructure Minister Laurence Skelly MHK, senior government officers, members of the business community and media that flew on one of the restored link’s first flights on Tuesday morning.
On arrival the party were greeted by the First Minister who said: ‘I am really delighted today we have got this direct flight restored.
‘The Chief Minister and I decided last year we would definitely get it done. And something unusual has happened - a political promise has been redeemed.
‘It’s a symbol of the historical links between the two countries. It may only be a small plane, and not a Jumbo Jet, but it’s a direct flight that will grow from here.
‘This is going to save a lot of people a lot of time, from businesses, to tourists to families.’
The Chief Minister added: ‘The return of direct flights between the island and Scotland is fantastic news for both countries and an example of what can be achieved when we act in partnership with our neighbours.
‘Both governments, together with Citywing, have worked hard to make this happen.’
He concluded: ‘The air route between us was simply too important to lose and its restoration will stimulate tourism and business on both sides of the water.
‘It is particularly pleasing to see the new service in place ahead of the Commonwealth Games. I am sure many people will travel to Glasgow at the end of July to cheer on the Isle of Man team.’