Hundreds of aviation jobs are under threat after Aer Lingus confirmed it will cease all long-haul operations from Manchester Airport. The airline is axing its services to popular destinations including Barbados, Orlando, and New York JFK.
Flights grounded and jobs at risk
The major change will take effect from 31 March 2026. Aer Lingus has stated it will not sell tickets for these Manchester-based long-haul routes beyond this date. This sudden decision has left its workforce facing an uncertain future, with the Unite union warning of significant job losses.
Unite's general secretary, Sharon Graham, strongly criticised the move, labelling it "simple economic vandalism." She accused the airline of showing "a complete disregard for its loyal workforce" and emphasised that the Manchester base was profitable.
Union ballots for strike action
In response to the proposed closure, Unite is preparing for a major industrial dispute. The union is balloting its members on taking strike action, with the ballot closing on 26 January. If workers vote in favour, strikes could begin in late February, causing severe disruption to the affected long-haul routes.
John O'Neill, a Unite regional officer, stated that the union has demanded full transparency from Aer Lingus. "No stone must be left unturned in pursuing all options in keeping the base operational and preserving jobs," he said. O'Neill added that Unite "will not back down from this crisis without a fight."
Expansion in Southampton contrasts with Manchester cuts
While scaling back in Manchester, Aer Lingus is simultaneously expanding its regional network elsewhere. The airline is significantly boosting capacity on its Belfast City to Southampton route, adding more than 17,000 extra seats.
This expansion is driven by growing demand for cruise-linked travel from Southampton, one of the UK's busiest cruise ports. From April 2026, the carrier will add eight additional weekly flights and introduce new Saturday morning departures from Belfast, offering greater flexibility for both leisure and business travellers.
The contrasting strategies highlight a shift in the airline's operational focus, moving long-haul capacity away from a major northern hub while investing in regional, cruise-focused connections in the south.
