Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK says the restoration of direct flights between the Isle of Man and Scotland will further strengthen business, tourism and cultural links between the two countries.
Citywing is operating nine return flights a week between Ronaldsway and Glasgow airports, with a view to increasing that number as demand rises.
The Chief Minister flew to Scotland this morning (Tuesday 1 April) as the head of an Isle of Man delegation comprising Infrastructure Minister Laurence Skelly MHK, senior Government officers, members of the business community and media representatives. The Manx party was greeted at Glasgow Airport by First Minister Alex Salmond MSP.
Mr Salmond and Mr Bell met in the Isle of Man last July and made a commitment to work together to help reinstate air links in time for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
The Chief Minister said:
‘The return of direct flights between the Isle of Man 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 added:
‘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, in which the Isle of Man is competing. I am sure many people will travel to Glasgow at the end of July to cheer on the Isle of Man team and in return we can offer Scottish visitors a warm welcome at the TT Races and our Island of Culture celebrations.’
The return of the direct flights is seen as an important step in reinforcing the social and economic connections that exist between the Scots and the Manx.
First Minister Alex Salmond, said:
‘I am delighted to offer a warm welcome to the Chief Minister and his delegation to Scotland particularly given they arrived on one of the first reinstated flights between Glasgow and the Isle of Man.
‘During my visit to the Isle of Man last summer, the Chief Minister and I made a pledge to restore these flights between Scotland and the Isle of Man in time for the Commonwealth Games and both Governments have worked hard together to make this happen. I’d also like to congratulate Glasgow Airport and Citywing on their efforts in securing this important route.
‘These flights will serve as a symbol of the close historical, social and cultural links between Scotland and the Isle of Man, providing a boost to tourism and business on both sides of the water.’
David Buck, Managing Director of Citywing, said:
‘We are delighted to be able to restore the direct flights which provide vital links for business, tourism and families between the Isle of Man and Scotland. In the long term, we are confident that the social and economic benefits of this transport link will continue to grow and, in the short term, these flights will provide a convenient means by which Island residents can travel to this year’s Commonwealth Games.’
