More Choice for holiday destinations from Leeds-Bradford (From Wharfedale Observer)
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More Choice for holiday destinations from Leeds-Bradford
2:50pm Monday 2nd July 2012 in Local news By Jonathan Redhead
Tony Hallwood
Sunseekers will have more holiday options next summer after the UK’s largest tour operator announced it is doubling capacity at Leeds Bradford Airport.
Thomson and First Choice will be introducing four new routes in 2013 – Menorca, Ibiza, Rhodes and Tenerife – as well as the addition of another weekly flight on existing Mallorca and Turkey routes.
The news follows the launch earlier this year of routes to Sharm El Sheikh and Tunisia. And LBA marketing director Tony Hallwood said he was delighted with the latest announcement.
“LBA is delighted to see the widening of holiday choice for both Thomson and First Choice in summer 2013 from West Yorkshire,” he said.
“With a total of ten exciting destinations now on offer from the UK’s largest tour operator, holidaymakers can now fly conveniently from their local airport.”
Mr Hallwood, pictured, said the announcement, combined with the likes of Monarch, Jet2.com and Ryanair poised to reveal their plans for next summer, backs up the current £11 million investment to revamp and refurbish the terminal building.
“It’s fantastic for the airport and great news for holidaymakers who live in the Bradford and Leeds region,” he said.
“It’s a vote of confidence and a boost to the local economy, too.
“Thomson and First Choice is the largest tour operating group in the UK and to attract it like this is also testament to the £11 million investment we’ve made.
“And there’s more to come. Three years ago, we had a growth strategy, and we’ve put our money where our mouth is and delivered on time, on schedule and within budget.”
Paul Cooper, airport negotiations manager for Thomson and First Choice, admitted his company wanted to be part of the investments at the Yeadon airport.
He said: “Doubling capacity at LBA demonstrates our continued commitment to the Yorkshire region, and following the success of our expanded programme announ-ced earlier in the year at the airport, we know that the demand is there.
“Modernising our operations across the UK is a key part of our overall strategy, and this move is definitely a step in the right direction towards creating an enhanced holiday experience for our customers.”
