EasyJet has launched its new between Isle of Man and Belfast.

The budget airline’s A319 aircraft touched down in Belfast International for the first time today.

EasyJet expects to carry more than 14,000 passengers on the route this summer, flying twice a week.

The direct route to the Northern Irish capital is expected to appeal to both business passengers and those seeking leisure trips.

EasyJet now operates five destinations from Ronaldsway - to Bristol, Liverpool, London Luton and Gatwick.

The new service will operates twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, with fares starting from £25.49.

Ali Gayward, UK Country Manager, easyJet said: ’We are really pleased have expanded our route offering from Isle of Man with the addition of this new service to Belfast and it’s great to announce the inaugural flight today.

’We’re seeing more and more people using our services from Isle of Man for both leisure and business trips and we’re keen to continue adding more varied routes to our schedule.

’The new route is doing well this summer and we are sure that this trend will continue.’

Director of Ports Ann Reynolds said: ’Following on from the tremendous number of flights easyJet put on through the TT period, it’s a great time for the launch of easyJet’s Belfast International - a service to the island, offering excellent fares for both leisure and business passengers.’