belfast route set to resume in new year

FLIGHTS between Cardiff and Belfast are set to resume nearly a year after the flight link between the two cities came to an end.

Eastern Airways has announced it will commence up to six flights a week from Cardiff Airport to George Best Belfast City Airport from January 11, 2021.

The service will be the only direct air link to Wales from the whole of Ireland following the collapse of Flybe in March.

Spencer Birns, interim CEO at Cardiff Airport, said: “Today’s announcement is a hugely positive step and we are delighted that Eastern Airways has stepped in to re-instate a regular service between Cardiff and Belfast, offering vital connectivity between Wales and Northern Ireland.

“Belfast has been one of our most in-demand routes since Flybe entered administration for both customers travelling for work, or to visit friends and family.

“We’d like to thank Eastern Airways for their continued confidence in regional connectivity from Cardiff.”

The popular route to Belfast was previously operated by Flybe before the airline entered into administration in March 2020, and there has been huge demand since for it to be reinstated.

The Cardiff to Belfast City service, operated initially by Jetstream 41 aircraft seating 29 passengers, will operate on all weekdays and Sundays, with fares starting from £79.99 each way.

Katy Best, commercial director at Belfast City Airport, said: “The announcement is extremely welcome news for passengers who regularly travel to Wales.”

Roger Hage, general manager commercial and operations for Eastern Airways, said: “The introduction of a Cardiff service means connectivity between Northern Ireland and Wales is already in place as the appetite for travel increases.”