MORE than 50,000 passengers have travelled by air from the Isle of Man to Leeds Bradford International Airport in the last five years.

Manx2.com, which operates the route, and the airport have just toasted the fifth anniversary of flights between the two locations.

Yesterday (Thursday) all passengers travelling to the Island on the route were treated to complimentary passes to the Yorkshire executive club lounge at Leeds and Bradford International Airport.

Noel Hayes the chairman of Manx2.com said: "The route from Leeds Bradford Airport has been an important connection since it was introduced - carrying over 50,000 passengers since 2006. 

"We recently exhibited at the Great Yorkshire Show where we had the opportunity to speak to many thousands of people about the convenient daily flights - ideal for both business and leisure travellers to get a taste of everything the Isle of Man has to offer."

Tony Hallwood, the international commercial and aviation development director at Leeds Bradford airport, said: "Congratulations to Manx2.com. It's always a popular route and the level of service offered by Manx2.com and their handling agents here is excellent. We look forward to celebrating many more years to come!"

Geoff Corkish MHK, political member for Isle of Man Tourism, said: "Stable and reliable air links remain crucial to the Island's tourism industry. We have welcomed thousands of visitors from the Leeds and Yorkshire area via this service and with flights every day of the week the Isle of Man is an ideal destination for a quick and easy getaway."

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