Major airline ‘contemplating shutting down all flights’ from Manchester Airport
Irish carrier Aer Lingus may be looking to shut down its operations at Manchester Airport, the airline has confirmed.
It’s believed the decision could put around 200 jobs at risk, with bosses confirming they’ve kicked off talks with union reps.
Aer Lingus runs long-distance routes from Manchester to New York JFK, Barbados and Orlando in Florida, plus connections to Dublin and Belfast.
However, the carrier revealed that its Manchester long-haul profit margins ‘continue to significantly lag behind that of Aer Lingus’s Irish longhaul operating margin’.
The company has confirmed it’s sat down with workers for discussions, reports the Manchester Evening News.
(Image: Team Jackson/Getty Images)
Aer Lingus kicked off its long-distance flights from Manchester back in 2021.
Any shutdown would spell the end for its Manchester to Disneyland Orlando service.
In a statement, Aer Lingus said: “Aer Lingus can confirm that the company met with staff at its Manchester base to brief them on the performance of the base.
“Despite all of the work and best efforts of the team, the Manchester longhaul operating margin performance continues to significantly lag behind that of Aer Lingus’s Irish longhaul operating margin. This situation has prompted a necessary consideration of the long-term viability of the Manchester base.
“Colleagues at the Manchester base were advised that Aer Lingus will now enter into a collective consultation process with their representatives. This process will explore all the options in respect of the base, however, staff were also advised that it will also include the possibility of a base closure.
(Image: Bradley Caslin via Getty Images)
“We acknowledge and fully appreciate that this is an uncertain and difficult time for colleagues based in Manchester and we will work closely with the management team and the staff in Manchester over the coming weeks, ensuring that they are kept fully informed and supported.”
The announcement comes after walkouts by Aer Lingus cabin crew at Manchester Airport over a pay dispute.
Around 130 staff members downed tools earlier this month, alleging wage disparities between themselves and their Irish colleagues.
Aer Lingus, Ireland’s national carrier, was established in 1936.
No additional information has been released.
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