Aer Lingus to end all Manchester-US flights

Aer Lingus passengers who were due to fly from Manchester Airport to New York have had their flights cancelled by the Irish airline.

The operator cancelled all scheduled journeys between the two cities on 23 February, and plans to cease all its transatlantic operations from Manchester on 31 March.

A replacement service between Dublin and Barbados will run between April and May to accommodate those affected, an Aer Lingus spokesperson said.

"We understand that this is disappointing news and apologise for the disruption to our customers," they added.

Meetings have been held with staff representatives about the cut in services and "the terms of a severance package at the Manchester base", the spokesperson said.

"Aer Lingus acknowledges that this is a very difficult time for colleagues based in Manchester and will seek to ensure that colleagues are kept informed and supported as discussions evolve during the next phase of the consultation."

All other Aer Lingus or Aer Lingus Regional (Emerald Airlines) flights between Manchester and Ireland have not been affected.

Passengers whose flights were cancelled have been told directly and provided with options for a refund or to rearrange flights.

The spokesperson said: "We appreciate our customers' patience and cooperation during this time, as we contact customers directly regarding their flights.

"If you have already contacted us to request an alternative flight or refund, please be assured that we are working on your request and will be in touch in due course."

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