A NEW fast-transit business airline, Jetstream Express, has chosen George Best Belfast City Airport to Blackpool as its first route, with 10 flights a week starting on May 8.

The service is designed with business in mind - the 7.30am service from Blackpool will get commuters into Belfast City at 8.20, in good time for a 9.00 am start. And with the return leg leaving Belfast City at 8.45am, commuters could easily be in central Blackpool, Lancaster, Preston or even Manchester by mid-morning.

John Hardcastle, Director of Jetstream Express said: "Jetstream Express is all about speed and efficiency. We've chosen our routes carefully so that passengers can be sure of the fastest 'kerb to gate' times possible.

"Belfast City is the perfect destination - the airport layout means we can get passengers out of their cars, through the airport and into the air as quickly and comfortably as possible.

"And because we believe in business class standards, passengers can enjoy free inflight hospitality and access to the Blackpool International executive lounge too."

The service looks set to appeal to leisure travellers too. Aside from the obvious buzz of a short break in Blackpool, the new shuttle provides easy access to the beautiful Lake District.

Jetstream Express is being operated by business charter experts Jetstream Executive Travel, a company that owns and operates a fleet of 19-seater modern, spacious Jetstream 31 aircraft.

According to John Hardcastle, it's all part of the plan: "We're using aircraft that are ideally suited to short-haul routes, and insist on our own crews - their commitment is essential for us to achieve fast turn-around times and the highest standards of passenger service."

Jetstream Express is rolling out routes over the summer, including five flights a week from Blackpool to Aberdeen from June 4 and a similar shuttle service between Blackpool and Southampton starting July 2.

Maria Rueda Business Development Director Belfast City Airport said: "We are delighted to welcome Jetstream Express aboard. These new services will offer greater convenience to many business travellers who need to fly directly to and from the North West."