VLM to launch two new routes from Manchester

Belgian carrier VLM has announced two new routes from Manchester Airport, to Ostend-Bruges and Antwerp.

The Ostend-Bruges route will operate daily, while the Antwerp service will offer two daily flights on weekdays, and one daily flight during weekends.

Both routes will commence from October 1.

It is the first time that Manchester will have a direct flight to Ostend-Bruges, offering passengers access to the stunning, medieval city of Bruges.

VLM previously offered direct flights to Antwerp, Belgium’s second city, in 2009.

The flights will operate on a Fokker 50 aircraft and fares will start from £39 one way, including taxes.

Konstantijn Huys, commercial director of VLM Regional, said: “We are very happy to re-establish the route between Manchester and Antwerp.

“Antwerp is not only Europe’s second largest seaport and the world’s diamond capital, the city also has the second largest petrochemical cluster in the world after Houston, Texas.

“The city is also renowned for its thriving fashion, cultural, culinary and heritage scene.”

He added: “Passengers flying to Bruges-Ostend Airport are within 20 minutes of the medieval city centre of Bruges, also often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’.

“Bruges-Ostend Airport is also the perfect gateway for a visit to Flanders Fields, where so many young people sacrificed their lives during WW1.

“In the lead up to November 11, there will be numerous centennial events in West-Flanders commemorating the end of the Great War.”

Julian Carr, aviation director for Manchester Airport, said: “We’re delighted to see VLM coming back to Manchester to re-connect the airport with Antwerp and also launch services to Ostend-Bruges.

“Both destinations are perfect for city breaks and I’m sure they’ll prove hugely popular with the 22 million people in our catchment area.”