Europe Looks to ‘Bowland Experience’

First flights to and from France take off in April.

Staff at Blackpool Airport are saying “Vive La France!” as they prepare to launch a new seasonal service to and from Albert Picardie Airport in northern France.

The service will bring tourists into Lancashire as it gears up for an exciting year of iconic celebrations, such as the Preston Guild and sporting events including The Open Championship at Royal Lytham and St Anne’s Golf Club.

Albert is twinned with Ulverston in Cumbria and teams representing the two towns meet to play football at Easter with the Cyril Barker Shield being contested every year.

Flights will be available on selected dates from April to August 2012 and will also take passengers from Lancashire and The Lake District to Albert in the heart of the Somme region.

As well as access to the beautiful bay of Somme, the new route provides a gateway to the capital and the delights of Disneyland Paris.

Flights are being operated by Danish Air Transport (DAT) on an ATR 72-200 aircraft which can hold up to 66 passengers.

Paul Rankin, Airport Director at Blackpool said: “We are delighted to announce these new flights to and from France and we are looking forward to welcoming people into our fantastic county during what promises to be a thrilling year.

“Of course, the new service also means we can offer another brilliant destination to the people of Lancashire and the Lake District, giving them even more choice direct from their local airport.”

Prices start from £95 and bookings can be taken either by visiting DAT’s website:  https://dat-charter.worldticket.net/ by calling Blackpool Airport Flight Ops on 01253 472507 or visiting Airport Direct Travel at www.airportdirecttravel.co.uk/blackpool