LUFTHANSA is to launch a new service linking Belfast and Frankfurt next year.
The German flag carrier will begin operating at Belfast City Airport from April 23 2023.
It marks the airline’s first entry into the Northern Irish market. Flights are due to operate up to four times a week.
Katy Best, commercial director at Belfast City Airport, said the airline will provide the only route from the region to Germany
“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,” she continued.
“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.”
Dr Frank Wagner, general manager for sales across the UK, Ireland and Iceland for the Lufthansa Group, said: “We are excited to announce the addition of Belfast City Airport to Lufthansa’s global network with the inaugural flight to Frankfurt on 23rd April 2023.
“This new non-stop connection will bring Northern Ireland much closer to Frankfurt and to the heart of Western Europe. Connecting passengers will enjoy a convenient and full service connection beyond our hub to our vast network of over 200 destinations in summer 2023.”
The new air link has also been welcomed by the business community.
Invest NI’s interim boss, Mel Chittock, said: “Germany is a powerhouse of the European economy and one which offers tremendous potential for our local businesses to export to as well as being a major source of internationally mobile investment.
“Direct air connectivity is an important element of growing our economy and the establishment of this new direct route will make it easier for companies, both here and in the region, to do business together.”
NI Chamber chief executive, Ann McGregor has also welcomed the announcement.
“Air connectivity is an important driver of economic growth," she added. "So NI Chamber welcomes the introduction of this new route between Belfast and Frankfurt.
"For business passengers, including those servicing customers in Germany and Europe, it will help improve trade links and make travel to an important export market more accessible.”
The Honorary Consul for Germany to Northern Ireland, Marion Lübbeke, said: “We are delighted to see Lufthansa, one of the world’s leading airlines, coming to Northern Ireland and opening new opportunities for business and tourism.
"Northern Ireland is a popular travel destination for visitors from Germany who love the spectacular coastline, the buzzing cities and above all, the warm hospitality of the people.”
Flights to Frankfurt will be operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays via an Embraer aircraft and will offer both business and economy class services.
Fares start at £155 return and are now on sale.
