Passengers on the first bmi regional service from Aberdeen were met by a band of bagpipes as they disembarked at Bristol Airport today.
The airline has launched a twice daily direct jet service linking the South West with the Scottish city – one of the first new routes announced following bmi regional’s acquisition by new owners.
To celebrate the first scheduled service by bmi regional at Bristol Airport, passengers checking in for the first outbound flight were served complimentary refreshments, including a special cake decorated to mark the occasion.
bmi regional chairman Ian Woodley said: “We have had significant interest in the route since it was announced and today’s inaugural flight marks the beginning of a new chapter of growth within our regional network.
“Offering direct flights provides our customers with greater choice and increased flexibility, as well as providing additional onward connectivity, which we believe will see demand for our Bristol service continue to grow.
“Maintaining strong air links between Scotland and England is vital for bmi regional and we are committed to building on the core values of great customer service, innovation and value for money which our company is synonymous with.”
Shaun Browne, aviation director at Bristol Airport, said: “It is exciting to see the bmi regional livery on an aircraft at Bristol Airport, and we hope this service will be the first of many. The arrival of this renowned travel brand is great news for South West companies with links to Scotland, and we are already exploring the potential for additional routes in the future.”
The Bristol-Aberdeen service will be operated by an Embraer 145. Passengers can check in up to 30 minutes prior to departure and enjoy a free hold baggage allowance of 20kg, as well as complimentary onboard catering.
bmi regional was purchased from IAG in May this year and emerged from a transition agreement with bmi on 28 October as a fully independent airline, retaining the bmi regional name and continuing to provide domestic services throughout the UK and Europe.
