Lufthansa has announced plans to commence operations at Belfast City airport, marking the only direct air link between Northern Ireland and Germany.
The German flag carrier will operate four-times-weekly flights to Frankfurt from April 23, 2023, marking the only direct air link between Northern Ireland and Germany.
Flights will be operated by an Embraer aircraft with both business and economy cabins. Fares start at £155 return and are on sale from today.
Flight timings are as follows:
Monday and Friday: departs Belfast 1645, arrives in Frankfurt at 2010
Wednesday and Sunday: departs Belfast 0945, arrives in Frankfurt at 1310
Northern Ireland welcomed almost 65,000 German visitors in 2019, delivering almost £14 million for the economy, according to Tourism Ireland.
This news comes as Lufthansa unveils its 2023 summer schedule, which will also see the airline serve London Gatwick twice daily.
From April 2023, Lufthansa will connect a total of eleven destinations in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Katy Best, commercial director at Belfast City airport, commented:
“Attracting an airline such as Lufthansa to Northern Ireland that will provide the only route from the region to Germany is a major win for, not only the airport, but the wider tourism and business industry.
“With Germany being the third-largest market for overseas tourism to the island of Ireland, there is a clear demand for direct connectivity.”
“Frankfurt is an important city for commerce, culture, and tourism, and its airport is one of the busiest in Europe.
“As a base for Lufthansa, Frankfurt is a key destination in its network and gives passengers an attractive option for connecting flights to markets further afield.
“Lufthansa’s commitment to excellent customer service and great value makes it a superb fit for Belfast City Airport, and we look forward to welcoming passengers travelling to Frankfurt and beyond to the terminal.”