A NEW bus service has been launched linking Ilkley and Otley to Leeds Bradford Airport.

The new-look 62 will provide a direct airport service from Keighley, calling at Steeton, Silsden, Ilkley, Menston and Otley.

The Keighley Bus Company service, launched on Sunday, May 20, has won the approval of the area's MP John Grogan.

He said: "I very much welcome this new service which provides a direct link from Keighley, Silsden, Steeton , Addingham, Ilkley and Burley in Wharfedale to Leeds Bradford Airport for the first time. I receive a lot of complaints from constituents about the high price of parking and taxis at the airport . This bus will give many business travellers and holidaymakers on a budget another option to get to and from the airport ."

Journeys between Keighley and Leeds Bradford Airport will run every hour throughout the day on Monday to Saturday, with extra journeys between the Airport and Otley on Sundays.

The bus company’s CEO Alex Hornby said: "We’re delighted to extend the 62 to and from Leeds Bradford Airport, and it’s great to have the Airport backing us in this new venture. Getting to and from that holiday or business flight is about to become a lot easier – and cheaper – for the thousands of people who live and work along this busy route.

"Feedback from our customers has shown clear demand for easier and more direct journeys to and from the Airport, and the start of this new service is ideally timed as the peak summer holiday season gets underway. And, a boarding pass for our new 62 won’t break the bank either, as our usual range of value for money day, week and monthly passes will be valid along the whole route. We’re confident this new service will prove popular with current and new customers."

Chris Sanders, Aviation Development Director for Leeds Bradford Airport said: "The new 62 bus service is a brilliant idea – making Leeds Bradford Airport an even more attractive choice for holiday and business travel from a wider area – bringing flights as close as your nearest bus stop.

"The new bus service begins at an exciting time here at Leeds Bradford with a number of terminal improvements as we strive to create an airport Yorkshire can be proud of. From the moment customers step on board the bus, to their return home, we’re working with The Keighley Bus Company to make the whole journey by bus and plane smooth and seamless."