Bmi Regional has announced that it is launching three new routes between Birmingham Airport and Gothenburg (pictured above), Lyon and Toulouse from May 13. (Featured image by Gribiche)
A total of six flights per week will operate for each route, with the choice of new destinations based on demand from passengers flying for business and leisure.
Fares on the new routes will start from £59 each way, and the airline says it also expects to see an increase in the number of inbound visitors to both Birmingham and the Midlands.
Cathal O’Connell, the airline’s chief executive officer, said: “The launch of these routes to Gothenburg, Lyon and Toulouse is a continuation of bmi regional’s promise to serve key economic and tourism hubs across Europe.
“Launching our first services from Birmingham Airport is an indication of our commitment to UK regions and a significant investment to position the airline for growth.”
Praising the charms of the three European cities, O’Connell said that all three boasted “Unesco Heritage Sites, amazing food and great outdoor activities nearby”.
William Pearson, the aviation development director at Birmingham Airport, added: “It is fantastic news that bmi regional has chosen to launch these routes as its first services from Birmingham.
“These three new routes, operated on an Embraer, are currently un-served from the airport, meaning passengers have even more choice from their airport to visit these fantastic destinations.”
Bmi Regional was established as an independent airline in 2012, and these latest destinations will add to its existing routes of Bristol to Aberdeen, Hamburg and Frankfurt, and Manchester to Antwerp.
The airline was recently named the most punctual scheduled airline in the UK for the first nine months of 2012, fighting off competition from 35 airlines serving the UK, a title it has held since 2005.
“We are delighted to yet again achieve the accolade of the most punctual scheduled airline in the UK,” added Mr O’Connell.
“Holding on to this top position is a fantastic achievement and a real credit to all the bmi regional team.”