Manx2.com is set to increase the frequency of flights between the Isle of Man and Newcastle in the new year. 

The decision comes less than three months after the airline stepped in to rescue the route when the previous operator ceased its Isle of Man operations.

Noel Hayes, Chairman of Manx2.com, explains, "During October the route was very successful for us, and we are confident enough in the demand we are now seeing for the Newcastle route to increase flights from four rotations a week to ten rotations next year."

The extra services will include double daily services on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and the reintroduction of the summer Saturday service that was lost a few years ago. 

"When Eastern Airlines pulled out in August and we took over, our initial stop-gap schedule had two fewer rotations than they had provided, yet in October we carried more passengers.

"The airline industry is still experiencing falling passenger numbers, and the Isle of Man Airport’s October figures show a further market decline.  But Manx2.com are bucking the trend, and I believe that it is down to our lower fares, better flight times and great service."

Mr Hayes said that additional flights would help support the Isle of Man during the tough economic times ahead resulting from the UK’s unilateral reduction in the amount of VAT it repays to the Island.

"The Isle of Man is facing challenging times, and the best way to tackle the budget shortfall is to increase the amount of commercial activity on the Island.

"By increasing the number of flights, we are oiling the wheels of tourism and commerce, making it easier for visitors and for businesses to reach new clients and so generate the revenue that will help us all through this difficult period.

"Newcastle has many long-standing connections with the island and our new schedule will help revitalise those important links."