Breaking: BA confirms Heathrow service from Leeds Bradford

BRITISH Airways is to launch four-times-a-day flights from Leeds Bradford International Airport to Heathrow.

Leeds Bradford lost its direct link with London in March 2009 when BMI ceased its route to London Heathrow.

The British Airways daily service, starting from December 9, will enable passengers to make connections to destinations including Hong Kong, New York, Johannesburg, Singapore and Sydney.

Andy Lord, director of operations with British Airways, said: “This is a welcome return to Yorkshire for British Airways and we are very excited about flying from this excellent, commercially important airport once again.

“BMI’s integration into British Airways is enabling us to grow our network as we promised, giving customers more flights to destinations we know they want to fly to.

“Leeds Bradford has a significant catchment area and we are delighted to offer not only direct flights to London but a well timed schedule that will allow customers from this region to connect with our extensive short haul and long haul flights from Heathrow.”

John Parkin, chief executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “We are delighted to welcome British Airways to Leeds Bradford and Yorkshire.

“This important new service to Heathrow connects Yorkshire with the world. It provides our businesses with the access they need to emerging and established global markets, and enables those markets to easily come to Yorkshire, bringing their investment and inbound tourism direct into our region.

“This is outstanding news for the Leeds City Region and we look forward to a long and successful partnership with British Airways.”

One way fares from Leeds Bradford to Heathrow will be available from £42.