Budget airline easyJet has announced it is launching a new route between the island to Belfast next summer.

Flights to Belast International will operate twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays throughout the year from June 22.

Tickets have gone on sale with fares starting from £24.68.Flights depart Ronaldsway on Fridays at 3.05pm and return at 1.50pm on Mondays allowing for a long weekend getaway.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK country manager said:’We’re really pleased to be connecting customers between the Isle of Man and Belfast for the very first time.

’We’re committed to providing more connections than ever before to passengers in the Isle of Man for both business and pleasure, all with low fares and great service.”

Easter Airways operates flights between the island and Belfast City, having stepped in to save the route following the collapse of air operator Citywing.

EasyJet already operates routes between the Isle of Man and Bristol, Liverpool, London Gatwick and in the summer-only London Luton.

Full information about the network is available at www.easyJet.com