Latest news: Ryanair announces new routes

Michael O’Leary, chief executive of Ryanair, this week revealed a multi-million pound deal that will bring 2,000 jobs to Manchester. 18/07/2011

The low-cost airline is planning to have 20 new routes in operation by summer 2012, delivering around two million passengers a year. The move is set to create a range of jobs, from pilots to cabin crew roles, and handling agents to check-in staff.

The Irish-based carrier will fly mainly to European destinations in Spain and Italy, including: Barcelona; Madrid; Rome; and Valencia.

‘Ryanair is delighted to unveil Manchester as our 45th base with 26 routes,’ said Michael O’Leary.

‘It is great news for Ryanair, for Manchester and terrific news for the industry and economy,’ he added.

The announcement comes 18 months after the airline pulled many flights from Manchester, in a disagreement with the airport over costs.

‘Nothing has really changed. We've always thought Manchester was a brilliant airport, but it was expensive,’ continued Michael.

Two new aircrafts will be stationed at the airport from October, immediately bringing 250 new jobs and 17 of the new routes will be introduced this winter. This will expand to four planes and 26 routes in 2012.