Inaugural Thomas Cook Airlines' Manchester-San Fran flight takes off
Customers were treated to a celebration of USA entertainment and refreshments at the departure gate, with a spectacular Golden Gate Bridge cake marking the start of this fantastic new route for the airline.
Also, two lucky winners from a month-long Gaydio competition won a trip to San Francisco for four days after completing a final challenge at check-in.
Thomas Cook’s Chief Airlines and Hotels Officer, Christoph Debus, said: “This is such an amazing day for our customers and our airline. Our direct US flights are offering more amazing destinations than any other carrier from Manchester Airport.
“We are the largest long-haul carrier from Manchester Airport and offer the best US leisure destinations for holiday makers in the north west.”
Stephen Turner, Commercial Director at Manchester Airport, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see Thomas Cook Airlines’ inaugural flight to San Francisco leave from Manchester Airport, the UK’s global gateway to and from the North.
“Manchester Airport is the only UK airport outside of London to offer direct services to San Francisco and gives our 26.5m annual passengers easy access to the West Coast of the USA.
“Furthermore it showcases the role Manchester Airport plays in UK aviation, offering passengers in our catchment area easy, direct options from their local airport.
“I am sure this route will be a success and hope all the passengers on the first flight have a great trip to the USA.”
Direct flights to San Francisco from Manchester Airport depart on Sundays and Thursdays.
