A NEWLY formed UK airline has begun flights in and out of Belfast City Airport.

A2B Airways was launched in Blackpool, its base, and is operating direct services between Blackpool and Belfast with more flights to Belfast via the Isle of Man. The company says its operation will benefit tourism and other businesses and it is looking into the possibility of opening more routes from Blackpool to Ireland.

No other locations have yet been decided upon but City of Derry, Shannon and Galway are among the destinations being considered. A2B are also planning to launch a daily service between Blackpool and Amsterdam later this year.

The airline will operate 60 flights a week across the Irish Sea and has been set up by Mike Lee, former chairman of the aviation division of tour operator, Airtours which is now known as MyTravel. His co-directors are former airline captain Jim Morrow and Manx businessman Nigel Kenny. Captain Morrow, from Dublin, is now managing director of A2B Airways. He said: "This is a brand new airline with new managers, new aircraft, new aircrew and new ideas. We will give the best service there has ever been to people travelling between the UK's North West and the North of Ireland." Mike Lee, who has extensive interests in international aviation, said: "A great many people from all parts of the North of Ireland travel to Blackpool for holidays. Many others travel to the north west of England on business or to visit family and friends. "We will make travelling easier for all of them. Blackpool Airport is pleasant to use and has fast access to all parts of the region. We will offer a variety of fares to make flying affordable for everyone."

A2B will use Short 360 turbo-prop aircraft, carrying 36 passengers. and flying time between Belfast City Airport and Blackpool is 45 minutes. The new route will offer in-flight refreshments and a bar service. Fares start at £30 one-way plus taxes. Passengers will be able to check in for flights just 45 minutes before take-off.