VLM LCY to LPL: It's official!

VLM Airlines is adding two aircraft to its fleet and is launching a new high-frequency daily air link between Liverpool and London in February 2004.

Antwerp, 3 December 2003 – VLM Airlines is adding two aircraft to its fleet of customer-friendly Fokker F-50 aircraft. By basing one of these at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, VLM Airlines is providing the most convenient and fast links to the heart of London. The airline has thus responded to a considerable lobbying and commitment from the Liverpool community.

VLM Airlines has become the most important carrier at London City Airport. Last month the airline received the Golden Bridge Award, remitted by the Belgian- Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, for being the most entrepreneurial and dynamic company operating in the UK. Now, VLM Airlines has responded to a particular adamant lobby campaign orchestrated by the Liverpool/ Merseyside community for a direct air link to London. “We have been impressed with the campaigns mounted by the community and media of Liverpool” says VLM Airlines Managing Director Johan Vanneste. “Clearly, the whole community is committed to using an air link that brings the heart of London closer to Liverpool. We look forward to building on that partnership.”

In making its decision to open the route, VLM Airlines was particularly impressed with campaigns by Liverpool¹s local media, as well as the hard work and market research carried out by Liverpool John Lennon Airport and London City Airport. This research indicated that an airlink between Liverpool and London City would have important economic and social impact on the community of Liverpool.

When the high-frequency return flights from Liverpool John Lennon Airport to London City commence on Monday 23rd February 2004, the new route will provide a swift and convenient access to the capital that the people of Liverpool have been demanding for years.

Each weekday, VLM Airlines will fly 5 return services, with two every Sunday and one on Saturday. In order to enable this operation, VLM Airlines is expanding its fleet with two additional aircraft. The timetable offers an early-bird 06.30 departure to London City, and a convenient 20.45 late return to Liverpool. Reservations for this route will be possible as from Monday December 8th.

Pricing, check-in timings and all aspects of inflight service and ground handling will match VLM Airlines’ established excellence on its other routine flights to London City service, for which the airline has become notorious. “Our punctuality and performance are excellent and we have a reputation to maintain.” adds Johan Vanneste. Of importance are the swift boarding and disembarkation procedurres and the short check-in times (approximately 20 minutes prior to departure). London City also provides fast transfers to direct routes serving Antwerp, Brussels, Luxembourg and Rotterdam with VLM Airlines.

“We’re confident that with the support of the local Liverpool community, this new route will prove to be successful!” concludes Johan Vanneste.