Flybe is to fly between Belfast and Manchester

Initially, there will be three return flights daily, with a fourth running from February.

Mike Rutter of Flybe said the route was significant in terms of both business and leisure travel.

He said the route had been "unchallenged" until now.

"It is a service which we intend to grow and firmly establish in our route network," he said.

At the same time, the airline announced a new service from Manchester to Exeter, and plans to open a further six routes out of Manchester over the next two years.

British Airways also operates flights from Belfast City airport to Manchester.

The Belfast-Manchester route is also served by BMI Baby from Belfast International.