Airlines to expand Aer Lingus Regional deal

Aer Arann is to expand its partnership with Aer Lingus, ceasing the operation of flights under its own name, the airline confirmed today.

From March 25th, all Aer Arann services to the UK, France and the Isle of Man will operate under the Aer Lingus Regional brand.

The new routes, including those between Waterford and London Southend, Manchester and London Luton, and between Dublin and the Isle of Man and Kerry, join 21 existing Aer Lingus Regional routes operating from Dublin, Cork and Shannon through Aer Arann.

Aer Arann's interim chief executive Sean Brogan said the move was "a major strategic development" for the airline. "Operating under one renowned brand will enable us to streamline our services, resulting in an overall improved experience for our customers," he said.

Aer Arann will continue to operate its Isle of Man-London City route under the Aer Arann Regional brand.

Under the terms of the Aer Lingus Regional partnership, Aer Arann provides the aircraft and crew. The flights are operated under the Aer Lingus brand and seats are sold through its website.

The airlines last week announced that a new Aer Lingus Regional route would operate between London Southend and Dublin from May 10th.

Aer Arann was controlled by Galway businessman Pádraig Ó Céidigh until it entered examinership in 2010.