The retention of some services from Belfast International Airport has in no way reduced our commitment to work closely with Belfast City Airport

Austin Reid BMI

The announcement will see the airline move the majority of its business to the City Airport on 28 October, but at the same time ensuring Heathrow services are maintained from Belfast International Airport.

BMI chief executive Austin Reid said the company was "delighted we have been able to take into account the needs of all Northern Ireland travellers".

"We believe that there is great deal of potential to develop our business from Belfast City Airport from where we will operate the majority of our services," he said.

"However, we also recognise that some passengers may still have a preference to use an alternative airport when flying to Heathrow.

'Commitment'

Mr Reid added that the decision to retain some services at Aldergrove would not detract from the airline's commitment to its new operations at Belfast City Airport.

Airport Director at Belfast City John Doran, said it was important that a comprehensive air service between Northern Ireland and London was maintained.

"We look forward to welcoming BMI British Midland to the airport at the end of the month, and to working with them for the long term economic benefit of the province."

David Burnside:Insisted more flights were needed

BMI has flown from the International airport, near Templepatrick in County Antrim, for almost 20 years.

South Antrim Ulster Unionist Party MP David Burnside welcomed the decision but insisted more flights still needed to be put on the Belfast International to Heathrow route.

He called on low-budget airlines to take advantage of British Airway's decision to drop services from Aldergrove.

"Belfast International Airport should negotiate as widely as possible because four flights a day is not going to satisfy the demand," he said.

'Starved'

Regional Development Minister, Gregory Campbell welcomed BMI's decision and said it "recognised the importance to Northern Ireland of strong links with the UK's main international hub airport".

Meanwhile, Ryanair's chief executive Michael O'Leary has said the company is still waiting for a response to its proposal to operate out of Belfast International.

He said an outline deal had been agreed with the airport owners but he was still waiting for confirmation

"Northern Ireland is starved of direct flights to European capitals," he said.

"We are happy to do it so long as there is a low cost base and efficient facilities there and if the owner of Belfast International, TBI wants us to do it, we will do it."