In a significant blow for holidaymakers and the regional economy, Irish airline Aer Lingus has announced it is considering the closure of its operating base at Manchester Airport.
Financial Struggles Prompt Base Review
The airline confirmed it has entered into a consultation process with staff and unions, a move that puts approximately 200 jobs at risk. This drastic step follows a sustained period of underperformance from the Manchester long-haul operations.
A statement from the carrier revealed that despite the best efforts of its team, the Manchester long-haul operating margin performance continues to significantly lag behind the profitability of its equivalent long-haul services operating from its home base in Ireland.
Popular Holiday Routes Under Threat
Aer Lingus launched its long-haul services from Manchester in 2021, establishing key routes to popular destinations. A base closure would lead to the axing of all its long-haul flights from the Northern hub.
This includes the vital service from Manchester to Orlando, the gateway for millions of British tourists heading to the world-famous Walt Disney World resort. Other routes facing the chop are the flights to New York JFK and Barbados. The airline will continue to operate its shorter routes to Dublin and Belfast.
Uncertain Future for Staff and Travellers
The company has begun a collective consultation process, exploring all options, but has explicitly stated that a full base closure is on the table. This news creates a period of intense uncertainty for the employees based in Manchester.
An Aer Lingus spokesperson said: "We acknowledge and fully appreciate that this is an uncertain and difficult time for colleagues based in Manchester and we will work closely with the management team and the staff in Manchester over the coming weeks."
For passengers in the North of England, the potential withdrawal of Aer Lingus represents a reduction in choice and competition for transatlantic travel, particularly for families seeking a direct flight to the magic of Disney.
