A Manx tour operator has become the first to offer flights from the Isle of Man to the United States, thanks to a partnership with Aer Lingus.

The news follows the recent announcement that, while Aer Arann would be discontinuing its Isle of Man-London City route, the Ronaldsway to Dublin route would continue under Aer Lingus Regional colours.

Freedom Travel has worked closely with Aer Lingus to be the first to offer holiday packages, via Dublin, to the USA. It means holidaymakers can check their baggage in at Ronaldsway and collect it on arrival in the States.

Freedom Travel’s managing director Jan Wozniak said: ‘This is a fantastic opportunity to reach the United States from the Isle of Man without an overnight stay in another country first. There is also the ability to clear immigration while in Dublin, which adds to the convenience of an overall package that includes flights, transfers, accommodation and baggage.’

Freedom Travel is already the Isle of Man’s leading provider of direct flight holidays and has a wealth of experience in package holidays.

Jan said: ‘Dublin is a very user friendly airport with pre-clearance through US customs. We wanted to be able to offer Isle of Man residents more holidays with less hassle from the island to the USA which is why we have developed a partnership with Aer Lingus. Simply board your morning flight at Ronaldsway and you’ll be in the States later that day.’

Holiday packages being offered by Freedom Travel include two weeks in Orlando, including transfers and choice of accommodation, from ?899 per person, and a four and three night package from Ronaldsway to New York, Chicago and Boston from ?823 per person.