LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE
Flight Reductions at Ronaldsway Airport Attributed to Demand Changes
EasyJet to cut routes between the Isle of Man and North West England amid shifting travel patterns.
16 February 2025 · 13:00 UTC
The airline will decrease the number of flights to Liverpool and Manchester from April to November due to a reported decline in passenger demand.
Haywood noted that while EasyJet's adjustments may inconvenience some travelers, the continued service to the island is a positive aspect.
The minister remarked, 'I understand the frustrations of those whose travel plans have been disrupted.' Even with these changes, flights to London Gatwick and Bristol will remain unaffected.
Beginning in April, EasyJet plans to operate up to 12 weekly flights to Manchester and 10 to Liverpool.
The changes in service are part of the airline's ongoing review of its flight schedules, aimed at aligning capacity with the current demand across its network.
The minister highlighted a shift in EasyJet’s operational focus, stating that the addition of 33 new routes from the UK to Europe necessitates adjustments to their existing flight offerings.
'Some of the take-off and land journeys have been a casualty of that change,' Haywood said, emphasizing that the decision rests solely with EasyJet.
In response to the changes, Haywood indicated that the Strategic Air Services Policy, which maintains an open skies approach, provides the Isle of Man with opportunities to engage with airlines and explore new routes.
'Work is ongoing with the airport and the Department for Enterprise over improving routes and getting increased connections into other destinations,' she stated.
EasyJet is one of two airlines currently operating from Ronaldsway Airport, which serves as a crucial transport link for residents and visitors to the Isle of Man.