The Enterprise Minister has defended the government’s air strategy as MHKs warned of the impact a reduction in the number of flights on tourism.
easyJet has reduced the number of flights between Ronaldsway and the North West of England this year.
Tim Johnston said that while the government is disappointed by the airline’s decision, it was ultimately a business decision that it has no control over.
He said: “Whilst naturally, it is disappointing when flight schedules are reduced, I believe this brings into sharper focus the need for commitment to a longer term approach, as government has set out, is essential to ensure that the core routes or regions are served by alternative airlines, to ensure a level of resilience, and that is the case in this instance, specifically because of earlier discussions and agreements with an alternative airline, together with the frequency and capacity which will still be provided by easy jet this year.
“I am sure honourable members will appreciate there is no quick and simple fix that the full benefits of following a clear strategic approach will take time to achieve.
“However, government remains committed to ensuring that island has air conductivity which meets the social and economic needs of the island.”
Not Just Us
Facing a grill by backbench MHKs, Mr Johnston said that it was not just the Isle of Man that had been affected, with Jersey also facing a reduction in services as the airline switches its focus.
He said: “This is a decision they’ve made right across the United Kingdom.
“This is going to lead to a certain 45,000 seat reduction to the Isle of Man but, for example, Jersey is seeing an 80,000 reduction in seat numbers and if we look at the routes to the north west, those key two routes to Liverpool and Manchester with the continuing capacity of easier and Logan there, there’s still 170,000 seat capacity.”
Mr Johnston also noted that the issue requires a “long term” solution and there would be no quick fixes.
Listen to the full exchange below:
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