bmi to start direct service to Brussels

Aberdeen-based bmi regional, officially the UK’s most punctual and reliable airline, today announces another new international air route from Aberdeen. Starting 16 April, a direct daily service will link Aberdeen and the Belgian capital, Brussels, providing a convenient afternoon departure and a much needed non-stop flight connection between the two cities.

Stewart Adams, managing director bmi regional, said: “Our network of full-service, non-stop flights between Scotland and key destinations in the UK and Europe continues to expand and it is with particular pleasure that we bring another international service, our fourth, to Aberdeen.

“Brussels is a much needed direct air link for the city in terms of both outward and incoming business travel and tourism and will doubtless be a popular addition to our flight network.”

Kevin Brown, Aberdeen Airport managing director said: “This is an important new link for Aberdeen and the north east, and particularly for the local business community. We have long felt there was a need for a link between Aberdeen and Brussels, two of Europe’s most important financial and commercial centres, and we welcome this commitment from bmi regional.

“This new route is an important addition to Aberdeen’s European route network and gives the city direct access to one of Europe’s most dynamic and cultural, capital cities. We look forward to working with our business and tourism partners, and with bmi regional, to harness the opportunities this new service creates for business and tourism in the north east.”

The new route takes advantage of support from the Scottish Executive Route Development Fund. Set up in 2002, the fund encourages direct links to Scottish airports thereby reducing journey times and offering alternatives to flying through hubs like London, improving Scotland’s global connectivity, providing new jobs and stimulating tourism and business markets.

Transport Minister, Tavish Scott said: “This new service between Aberdeen and Brussels is great news for the North East, and for Scotland. It will open up new opportunities for Scottish businesses, and bring benefits for Scottish tourism.

“Brussels is one of the most important cities in Europe. It is the focal point of European Union business and this announcement is another step forward in our aim of increasing the number of direct air services between Scotland and the rest of the world.
“RDF continues to attract airlines to expand in Scotland giving us direct links to some of the world’s key transport hubs.”

Using modern Embraer jet aircraft on the new route, passengers can look forward to attractive business and economy fares and the renowned bmi regional service, which continues to offer complimentary in-flight refreshments to all passengers.

bmi regional also continues to be the UK’s most punctual airline, according to CAA published statistics. Unrivalled punctuality and reliance in the air is matched with speed and efficiency on the ground with business lounge facilities and range of check-in options, including online or self-service check-in.

This latest announcement from bmi regional follows the recent news that the Aberdeen based airline is increasing its jet aircraft fleet by 25% during 2007 and is also launching direct Aberdeen-Kristiansand and Edinburgh-Zurich flights in March.