Dart Group PLC

Jet2.com today signalled further investment into the North East, with the announcement of its summer 2011 schedule which will see no less than five new direct routes launched from Newcastle International Airport - and will establish Jet2.com as the carrier to offer the widest range of international routes from the airport.

Jet2.com's new services will include the only flights to city destinations Krakow, Prague and Toulouse from the North East, as well as popular holiday hotspots Alicante and Faro - and brings the total number of destinations served by Jet2.com to an impressive 24.

What's more, services to Prague will commence as early as November 2010, ensuring holiday makers in the North East will be able to take advantage of the city's famous Christmas Markets and festive offerings.

All routes are available to book from today for departures from November 2010, with incredible starting fares from £29.99 one way including taxes or from £199 for great value package tours through sister company, Jet2holidays.

New Jet2.com and Jet2Holidays routes and starting fares from Newcastle International Airport for summer 2011 are:

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC from £29.99 one way including taxes, starting 5th November 2010 or from £199 for a three-night, bed and breakfast package holiday with Jet2holidays;
KRAKOW, POLAND from £29.99 one way flight-only including taxes, starting 28 March 2011 or from £199 for a three-night, bed and breakfast package holiday with Jet2holidays;
ALICANTE, COSTA BRAVA from £29.99 flight-only one way including taxes, starting 1 April 2011 or from £249 for a seven-night, self catering package holiday with Jet2holidays;
FARO, ALGARVE from £29.99 flight-only one way including taxes, starting 2 April 2011 or from £259 for a seven-night, self catering package holiday with Jet2Holidays. and
TOULOUSE, FRANCE from £29.99 one way flight-only including taxes, starting 22 May 2011.

In addition to the new routes, further services will be added to existing summer 2011 schedules to holiday favourites including Ibiza, Mahon, Malaga, Tunisia, Murcia and Palma.

Jet2.com is fast becoming the airline of choice for celebrities across the country

This week, Chris Bisson, who plays Jai Sharma in Yorkshire's much loved soap opera Emmerdale, was spotted onboard a Jet2.com flight. The Manchester born actor, who formerly starred in film blockbuster East is East, Channel 4 hit series Shameless and Coronation Street, joins the long list of celebrities to fly with Jet2.com.

Boarding an early flight from Manchester Airport, Chris jetted off with his family for a relaxing break away from 'The Farm'.

In recent months Jet2.com has seen a whole host of celebrities onboard, including Harry Potter actor, Matthew Lewis; Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro; Formula One supremo, Damon Hill; Kate Middleton and even the future king himself, Prince William - not to mention the pride of Romanian lions recently rescued by Jet2.com from a rundown zoo.

Watch this space for more celeb-spots!

PRELIMINARY UNAUDITED RESULTS FOR YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2010

Dart Group PLC (the 'Group'), the Aviation and Distribution Group, announces its preliminary results for the year ended 31 March 2010. These results are presented under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT

I am pleased to report on the Group's trading for the year ended 31 March 2010 - a reasonably satisfactory year for the Group in what were challenging conditions for our Aviation business, Jet2.com. It was, however, an encouraging year for our Distribution business, Fowler Welch-Coolchain. Group turnover fell slightly to £434m (2009: £439m). Group profitability was impacted by lower margins in Jet2.com, as a result of reduced customer demand. Group profit before tax amounted to £22.2m (2009: £33.5m) with earnings per share of 11.1p (2009: 19.3p). Underlying profit before tax, before specific IAS 39 fair value movements, was £19.1m (2009: £28.8m). In consideration of the Group's current trading performance, the Board recommends a final dividend of 0.75p per share (2009: 0.71p). If approved at the Group's Annual General Meeting to be held on 2 September 2010, this dividend will be payable on 15 October 2010 to shareholders on the Group's register at the close o f business on 10 September 2010. The associated ex-dividend date will be 8 September 2010.

Capital expenditure for the year ended 31 March 2010 was £32.1m (2009: £27.9m). This expenditure related principally to long term maintenance spend on aircraft airframes and engines, together with the acquisition of a further Boeing 757-200 aircraft. As at 31 March 2010, the Group's net cash position amounted to £52.2m (2009: £11.8m). Net cash flow from operating activities amounted to £73.2m (2009: £58.4m), driven principally by improved forward bookings in Jet2.com.

Aviation

Jet2.com, the Group's leisure airline, experienced weaker customer demand for its passenger services, especially during off-peak and winter months, with flights to skiing destinations being particularly affected. However, early action was taken to reduce capacity and frequency in order to control potential losses. At the same time we continued to develop our services to year round 'far sun' destinations, including additional flights to Cyprus, Egypt and the Canary Islands, although this was, of course, in the face of increased capacity from other operators. New destinations added to the Jet2.com network in 2009 were Dalaman, Dubrovnik, Newquay, Tel Aviv and Split, with capacity closely tailored to anticipated demand. Overall 2009/10 seat capacity was 7% below that of the previous year.

Jet2.com is supported by 5 key income streams:

Seat only sales via the Jet2.com web site, with the unique proposition of 'great flight times', '22kg baggage allowance', 'allocated seating', and 'loyalty points for free flights';
Jet2Holidays.com - the Group's expanding Tour Operator, offering 'great value packages that you can trust', using Jet2.com's flights and over 600 directly contracted hotels. Over 64,000 packages were sold in the year and this is planned to grow substantially going forward;
The sale of allocations of seats on our flights to other tour operators, together with sales to the travel trade, thereby spreading commercial risk, especially for new routes;
750 whole-aircraft charters in the year for a wide range of customers including tour operators, other airlines, sports teams, pilgrims, government & national agencies, corporate customers, orchestras and cruise lines, to over 130 destinations in Europe, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia; and
Our long-term contract with Royal Mail for whom we operate eight Boeing 737-300 'Quick Change' aircraft on night services, carrying primarily First Class mail. We have flown services for Royal Mail since 1978 and very much value our relationship.

During the year we carried over 3.1 million scheduled and charter passengers.

A key element in support of our planned future development is our in-house IT capability. Our software development team has built our Jet2.com and Jet2Holidays.com reservations systems from scratch, working closely with our commercial and operational teams to deliver to exacting specifications. Our Web and IT team of over 40 employees (encompassing site design, database management, software development, operational support and quality assurance) create and enhance internet based solutions that help us to deliver our great leisure products. We are continually developing and improving these IT business systems to meet our customers' needs in a fast changing market.

We use several leading-edge analytical tools to understand our customers' browsing and purchasing habits and these, together with focus groups and website usability testing, give us detailed insights into how we can better deliver products that are attractive to our customers. An example of this is our growing loyalty scheme, 'myJet2'. We have over 250,000 loyalty scheme members who earn points for their purchases, redeemable against flights.

Our in-house IT capabilities also greatly benefit the growth of our ancillary retail revenues, which include checked-in bags with a sector-leading weight allowance of 22kg, seat selection including extra leg room, pre-booked meals, great value in-flight service, foreign exchange and commissions on car hire. Together, these ancillary products brought in £21 per passenger in the financial year to 31 March 2010.

Our challenge is to differentiate the Company in the seat-only market. We believe our in-house IT, our caring and friendly service and our unique selling propositions go a good way to achieving this. With the contribution of passengers from Jet2Holidays alongside our other income streams, we feel optimistic that, provided we are flexible, continue to innovate and to offer really great value fares, our Aviation business will prosper.

Distribution

It gives me great pleasure to report on the considerable progress made by our logistics business, Fowler Welch-Coolchain in the year. The Company specialises in the distribution of chilled and ambient foods and other consumer products on behalf of leading supermarkets and their suppliers.

Following the financial year end, in May 2010, after a long search, the Company completed the freehold purchase of a 500,000 sq.ft., 50,000+ pallet capacity, ambient distribution centre located adjacent to the motorway network in Heywood, Greater Manchester. This acquisition doubles the Company's distribution footprint. Known as 'The Hub' and formerly used by major retailers, this facility is fully racked and ready to go - setting the scene for Fowler Welch-Coolchain to greatly expand its storage & distribution offering in the North West. The Company's existing North West distribution business, which is based at Stockport, Cheshire, is vacating its existing leasehold premises and will be fully operational from the Hub before Christmas 2010. It is also planned to offer temperature-controlled storage and distribution from The Hub following the installation of cold stores in the near future.

IT plays an important role in the success of Fowler Welch-Coolchain and it is pleasing to report on the successful implementation of the Company's Manhattan warehouse management software, which is delivering measurable efficiencies and will imminently also be implemented at the Hub.

Fowler Welch Coolchain's Distribution business is benefiting from a number of new business wins, together with increased support from existing customers. We are delighted to be distributing the full range of products sold by Tesco Express convenience stores in the North East from our distribution centre in Washington, Tyne and Wear. Other new customers for this distribution centre include Cumbrian Seafoods, who have awarded Fowler Welch-Coolchain their pick-to-order warehousing and onward distribution requirements. The quality of service and growth in business at this site is really encouraging and rewarding, following our initial freehold investment four years ago and a substantial upgrade of facilities and services over the past 18 months. Our distribution business in Kent and our South coast operations at Portsmouth and Southampton all out-performed expectations in the year, through new business wins and increased volumes from existing customers.

During the year, considerable internal warehouse development has taken place at our Spalding distribution centre which is the Company's head office, allowing us to expand here also. Together with new operations for Tesco out of Avonmouth, the start of distribution operations in the Midlands for Mars, the growth of our European operations on behalf of American Airlines and others, and the development of our recently acquired container business, Bawdsey Haulage Limited in Felixstowe, the commercial outlook at Fowler Welch-Coolchain, whilst hugely price competitive, looks encouraging.

Our Staff

Our businesses must maintain their reputation for value for money and customer service. Low costs and flexibility have to be our drivers. This can only be achieved by focus on these key ingredients by each of us throughout the Group. I very much appreciate the support we receive in this respect - for we rely on customer demand to fuel our future growth.

Outlook

We hope to grow both our businesses in the year ahead, despite the continuing challenging economic climate. Fowler Welch-Coolchain has good business development opportunities throughout its operations - and particularly, of course, in the North West.

Given the right conditions, we will also invest in our leisure airline, with continued emphasis on leisure destinations, supported by seat-only and package holiday sales. In the current trading environment, both businesses have started the year reasonably satisfactorily, despite the disruption caused by the volcanic ash. With increasing demand for our Distribution services and a carefully tailored airline flying programme, we are reasonably well placed to deliver improved financial performance in this financial year.

Philip Meeson

Chairman
24 June 2010

Jet2.com added to Newcastle Airport's 75th anniversary celebrations in style yesterday, with the unveiling of a specially designed aircraft to mark the momentous occasion.

The special edition Jet2.com 757 will carry the official 75th anniversary logo on its fuselage as part of the airport's celebrations, which include a programme of special events throughout July.

Jet2.com boss, Philip Meeson, Managing Director, Ian Doubtfire, and Newcastle Airport Chief Executive Dave Laws, gathered at the airport to unveil the commemorative aircraft which will now carry passengers from Newcastle across Europe and as far a field as North Africa.

Speaking about the occasion, Philip said: "This is a magnificent landmark in the airport's history and we are delighted to be playing a significant role in the celebrations. The commemorative 757 really does look spectacular and I look forward to people from the North East taking advantage of our friendly low fares, great flight times and fantastic range of destinations on board soon!"

Jet2.com currently operates 19 destinations out of Newcastle including Majorca, Tunisia, Egypt, Turkey and Ibiza and has seen services grow by a third over the past 12 months. Earlier this month, the airline launched Newcastle's first ever transatlantic flights to New York which will depart in December 2010, providing two seasonal shopping trips to the Big Apple for people in the region.

Meanwhile Ian Doubtfire commented: "Newcastle is a hugely significant base for us and our operations here have grown considerably over the past year. The launch of our special Christmas New York Christmas flights was a great milestone for both the region and the airport and is extremely fitting for its anniversary year."

Dave Laws added: "The commemorative 757 looks excellent and is a really fitting addition to our anniversary celebrations. The support from Jet2.com has been fantastic over the past 12 months and the increase in services from the base and brand new destinations have ensured we can offer people in and around the region even more choice, in what is a landmark year for us."

Newcastle Airport will mark its anniversary on 26th July 2010 with a number of special events and the launch of a book celebrating its rich history. Furthermore, Jet2.com boss Mr Meeson will be supplying his vintage 1945 passenger aircraft, a DH Rapide, to open proceedings. The aircraft, which used to fly out of Newcastle, will re-enact the airport's opening 75 years ago. Airport Chiefs have also organised a special exhibition of archive film, photography and memorabilia at Newcastle City Library and other centres over the summer months.

Airline celebrates 41st destination from Leeds-Bradford with island's most famous sweet treat.

Jet2.com, today served up a brand new destination for the region... in the shape of Yorkshire's first ever direct service to the beautiful island of Madeira, from Leeds Bradford Airport.

Marking the launch, the low fare airline brought a touch of tea-room magic to the airport runway, as cabin crew served Jet2.com Managing Director Ian Doubtfire and Leeds Bradford's Commercial Director, Tony Hallwood with a one-off Jet2.com aircraft-shaped Madeira cake... and a Yorkshire cuppa!

Flights to the picturesque Portuguese island are now on sale for summer 2011 from just £49.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 14th February 2011 running right through to 31st October 2011.

Meanwhile holidaymakers can also take advantage of great value packages with Jet2Holidays from just £299 per person, for a 7 night 3 star break.

The brand new weekly flight is Yorkshire's only direct scheduled service to the popular holiday haven and follows hot on the heels of Jet2.com's highly successful Manchester to Madeira route, which was launched earlier this year.

Ian Doubtfire, Managing Director of Jet2.com said: "There is a lot more to Madeira than just its delicious cake! With beautiful weather, stunning scenery and so much to see and do, we are confident that the island will really captivate the region's holidaymakers and are delighted to be offering Yorkshire's only direct service to the island. At Jet2.com we pride ourselves in offering a fantastic range of holiday destinations and Madeira, now our 41st destination out of Leeds-Bradford airport, is a great addition to our friendly low fare schedule."

The British summer may be a bit hit and miss, but sun worshippers in North East can now look forward to some Spanish winter sun thanks to Jet2.com! The friendly low fares airline has stepped in with a real winter warmer for the region, with the announcement that it will extend its Newcastle to Murcia flight schedule throughout winter 2010/2011.

Flights to Murcia, which is a hot-spot for those with second homes in the region, are now on sale and start from just £29.99 per person one way including taxes. Departures will be as follows:

Up to 21st November 2010;
From 21st December 2010 to 4th January 2011; and
From 12th February 2011.

Whilst other airlines have cut back on flight schedules this winter, Jet2.com's careful choice of routes and holiday options from Newcastle International Airport means it is able to offer exciting new destinations for this summer season such as Hurghada and New York, whilst still stepping in to take over where other providers are pulling out this winter.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com commented: "Spain is a fantastically popular winter sun destination, particularly for those with second homes - and with an average of 300 days of sunshine a year offers a great get-away from the chilly British winter. At Jet2.com we are committed to providing passengers with flights to places they want to visit, at competitive prices and friendly flight times and with the prospect of a shortfall in flights to Murcia from the North East this winter we decided to come to the North East's rescue by extending this route."

Jet2.com has launched Yorkshire's first low cost service to the beautiful island of Madeira from Leeds Bradford Airport. Flights to Madeira (Funchal) are now on sale starting from 49.99 one way including taxes, and start on 14th February 2011 running through to 31st October 2011.

The weekly Monday morning service follows hot on the heels of Jet2.com's highly successful Manchester to Madeira route which started this year.

Holidaymakers can also take advantage of holiday packages with Jet2Holidays.com from £299* per person for a 7 night 3 star break starting from May 3rd 2011.

An archipelago off the coast of Portugal, Madeira offers year-round sunshine as well as beautiful natural beaches, rugged coastlines, volcanic caves and breathtaking views. Ideal for water sport enthusiasts, the island's Atlantic location offers the perfect spot for diving, fishing, surfing, whale and dolphin spotting as well as one of Europe's first underwater nature reserves on the Garajau coast line. Holidaymakers can also take advantage of Madeira's capital, Funchal, which provides a host of shopping opportunities as well as bustling squares and streets with an abundance of great restaurants with fantastic local cuisine.

Philip Meeson, boss at Jet2.com said "I'm thrilled to bring the island of Madeira to the people of Yorkshire - it really does have something for everyone and is only a few hours flight away. Our Manchester to Funchal route has been so incredibly popular and I'm sure that our Leeds-Bradford route will be just as a big a hit!

Jet2.com was pleased to fly Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro to Ibiza this weekend, as the Kilmarnock band jetted off to the white isle to headline the annual Ibiza Rocks festival.

Leaving a wet and windy Leeds Bradford airport behind, the 'Many of Horror' crowd pleasers will play a one-off gig at the exclusive Ibiza Rocks Hotel to 2000 clubbers on Tuesday night.

It's a bold statement but we are so happy with the new streamlined look, the addition of more destinations and yet more resorts that we feel it's justified. The 2010/2011 Jet2Holidays.com brochure is now on the shelves of travel agents and available to view online at Jet2Holidays.com, with great sunshine and city holiday ideas all year round, from 1 November 2010 until 31 October 2011.

As well as the new streamlined design that has made it more customer friendly, you will find 65 new resorts and plenty of year-round sunshine destinations like cheap holidays to Spain Mainland, the Balearics, the Canaries, Sharm el Sheikh, Portugal, Tunisia and the Greek islands.

We have continued our commitment to non-Euro Zone destinations by adding cheap holidays to Hurghada in Egypt and cheap holidays to Bodrum in Turkey, including the Bodrum peninsula.

Plus, back by popular demand, our seasonal cheap holidays to New York will return in December from £649 per person including flights and accommodation.

An Incredibly Exciting Year

The new format of the brochure has made finding your ideal holiday even easier. You will find four sections which showcase recommended hotels and apartments for families (Family choice) and adults (Adults choice) as well as more luxury properties (Luxe Collection) and those suited to 24 hour party people (Dusk 'til Dawn).

Plus with low holiday deposits and a part payment plans, it pays to book well in advance.

Steve Heapy, Jet2Holidays Managing Director, said: "We're delighted with the new 2010/2011 brochure. This has been an incredibly exciting year for Jet2Holidays - we've added even more new destinations, have a brand new base at East Midlands and are working with a whole host of new partners"

Shoppers in Leeds and Newcastle gaped in wonder today, as New York's most famous fashionista, Sarah Jessica Parker, paid a flying visit to the cities, in celebration of the launch of Jet2.com's special, one-off return flights to New York this Christmas...

The sexy State-sider hit the streets in a trademark New York Cab delighting inhabitants of both cities, who will be able to fly to the Big Apple this festive season from Leeds and Newcastle airports - for just £358.98 per person, including taxes.

What's more, package holidays are also available from Jet2Holidays for the bargain price of £599 per person including return flights and 3 night's hotel accommodation!

Flights go from Newcastle and Leeds-Bradford to New York's Newark airport as follows:

2nd December returning 5th December 2010; and
9th December returning 12th December 2010.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com said: "Nobody does Christmas quite like the Big Apple and I'm sure that the people of the North East and Yorkshire will revel in the opportunity to do their festive shopping in the most magical of winter wonderlands. Whether its ice-skating at the Rockefeller Centre, bargain hunting in Macy's, or cocktail sipping in Greenwich Village, I'd urge New York lovers to book their flights or holiday packages fast - places are going to go quicker than you can say 'Cosmopolitan'!"

Fowler Welch is delighted to announce the acquisition of a new 500,000 square feet freehold warehousing facility in Heywood, Greater Manchester. The new site offers 55,000 pallet storage spaces and will be operational in September 2010.

This major investment will combine the activities of two smaller facilities in Stockport and Heywood as well as providing scope for growth in this key area.

It is anticipated that the move will create additional employment in the North West area as well as providing a first class, low cost option for existing and future Fowler Welch customers.

Flights from Newcastle and Leeds-Bradford for just £358.98 return or 3 night breaks from £599!

As Sex and The City mania sweeps the UK this week, there is more good news in store for Carrie wannabes everywhere, as leading friendly low fare airline Jet2.com announces special, one-off return flights to New York this Christmas for just £358.98 per person, including taxes - leaving from Newcastle and Leeds-Bradford airports.

What's more, package holidays are also available from Jet2Holidays for the bargain price of £599 per person including return flights and 3 night's hotel accommodation!

Flights go from Newcastle and Leeds-Bradford to New York's Newark airport as follows:

2nd December returning 5th December 2010
9th December returning 12th December 2010

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com said: "Nobody does Christmas quite like the Big Apple and I'm sure that the people of the North East and Yorkshire will revel in the opportunity to do their festive shopping in the most magical of winter wonderlands. Whether its ice-skating at the Rockefeller Centre, bargain hunting in Macy's, or cocktail sipping in Greenwich Village, I'd urge New York lovers to book their flights or holiday packages fast - places are going to go quicker than you can say 'Cosmopolitan'!"

Airline announces 50th destination to Hurghada...

...Closely followed by 51st destination to Bodrum…

…Plus 8 existing routes go on sale for Summer 2011!

Jet2.com, today reaches a momentous milestone in its history with the launch of its 50th destination - to Egyptian holiday hot-spot Hurghada!

Flights to the divers paradise, which nestles on Egypt's Red Sea coast will depart from Manchester airport from 15th October 2010 and go on sale from today priced from just £79.99 per person, one way, including taxes. In addition Jet2Holidays is also offering package holidays to the stunning coastal resort, from just £499 per person for 7 nights, on a self-catering basis.

In case that wasn't enough for the North West's sun-worshippers, Jet2.com is also pleased to spread a little bit of Turkish delight...with the news that its 51st route will fly from Manchester to Bodrum on Turkey's southern peninsula, commencing on 16th May 2011.

Flights to the Turkish resort are priced from just £69.99 per person, one way, including taxes or alternatively, package-deals are available from £329 per person for 7 nights, on a self-catering basis.

And further cementing Jet2.com and Jet2Holidays as the North West's premier holiday provider, is the announcement of a further nine existing routes for summer 2011 which also go on sale today:

The Algarve (Faro) from just £39.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 27th March 2011 OR package holidays from £219 per person for 7 nights self catering;
Alicante from just £39.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 27th March 2011 OR package holidays from £229 per person for 7 nights self-catering;
Ibiza from just £39.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 6th May 2011 OR package holidays from £219 per person for 7 nights self-catering;
Madeira (Funchal) from just £49.99 per person one way including taxes, continuing from winter 2010 OR package holidays from £479 per person for 7 nights half-board;
Malaga from just £39.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 27th March 2011 OR package holidays from £249 for 7 nights self-catering;
Murcia from just £39.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 27th March 2011;
Tel Aviv from just £99.99 per person one way including taxes, a continuation from winter 2010; and
Tunisia (Monastir) from just £59.99 per person one way including taxes, departing from 16th April 2011 OR package holidays from £299 per person for 7 nights half board.

Manchester Airport has firmly cemented itself as a key base for Jet2.com which has seen its operations from the airport grow by a massive 27% over the past year. Furthermore, the low fare, friendly airline now carries over one million passengers every year from Manchester with over 200 flights departing per week.

Philip Meeson, boss at Jet2.com, said: "The airline's 50th route is a considerable milestone in our history and I'm delighted that our customers in the North West will be able to take advantage of direct flights to Hurghada and the stunning Red Sea coast line. It is an extremely popular destination offering year-round sunshine, dazzling beaches and world-class diving and since it sits outside the Euro-Zone, offers fantastic value to those sun-seekers wanting to stretch their budgets that little bit further."

There wasn't a dry eye in the house at Doncaster's Yorkshire Wildlife Park today (Monday 24th May) when the now world-famous pride of thirteen lions, rescued from squalid conditions in a Romanian zoo, were released into their brand new 9 acre enclosure, aptly named 'Lion Country'.

The plight of these majestic creatures came to the world's attention back in February, when bosses at Romania's Ordea Zoo asked the Yorkshire Park for urgent help - weak, and covered in sores; the pride was facing almost certain death kept in miniscule concrete cells, with a poor diet and at the mercy of the harsh Romanian winter. Bosses at the YWP were overwhelmed with support for the cause and Jet2.com mounted a huge cargo operation, donating one of its aircraft to fly to Romania and bring the precious big cats back to their new home.

Philip Meeson, Boss of friendly low-fare airline Jet2.com, said: "It is fantastic to see these beautiful lions now free to roam in the wonderful surroundings of the Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

"As soon as we heard about the rescue operation, we donated one of our Jet2.com aircraft and the expertise of our pilots and ground crew in order to help this very worthy cause. We're also delighted to have been able to fly Daiana, the Oradea zoo director, over to Yorkshire today to see the results of this momentous cat rescue which she has been such a huge part of.

"The lions are certainly one of the most unusual cargoes that we have carried over the years and we will be encouraging all of our passengers and staff to visit the Yorkshire Wildlife Park to see the big cats enjoying their new home in Lion Country. This has been a hugely worthwhile project to be involved in and we will continue to support our feline friends well into the future."

"Cheryl Williams, Director of the Park added: "This is a historic day for Yorkshire Wildlife Park. So many people, including Jet2.com worked tirelessly to make this happen and many thousands of people made donations to help save the lions - this has really been the people's rescue. We can't wait to see the lions out and enjoying their new home, it is the culmination of everything we have been working towards."

Following months of hard work, with staff battling harsh weather conditions, work is finally complete on the 13 big cats' new home, where they are showing off their shiny coats after taking up residence in the custom-built enclosure in Branton, near Doncaster. Far from the memories of their cramped quarters in Romania, the gang will enjoy the central lake, waterfall, and unique walkways which will take visitors into the land of the lions for a special safari.

Animal Director John Minion added, "We don't know really how the different lions will react to the space and the new environment, whether they will be curious or worried to come out. Just like people, they are all different characters. They have lived in cages all of their lives, for the youngsters it might not be such a challenge, but Johnny Senior is said to be 27 years old which is very old for a lion and it will be a massive change for him. This is really the moment that we have all been working for, and we are delighted that Daiana Ghender, the director of Oradea Zoo is also coming to join us. She has not seen the lions since they left the zoo and will see a huge improvement in their condition."

Lion Country is believed to be the largest non-drive through lion reserve in the country and possibly the world and Jet2.com will be following the pride's progress closely in the near future...watch this space lion lovers!

It is now over a month since Iceland's Eyjafjoell volcano caused major disruption to air travel across Europe.

Following on from these unprecedented events, Jet2.com has now established a clear strategy on ash disruption which lays down a course of action which is aimed to keep passengers moving in the event of further eruptions.

This plan was put into full force when the volcano caused further problems over the 15th-17th April. Jet2.com decided to create a hub at Newcastle Airport which remained open, chartering an extra 14 aircraft and 80 coaches to transport over 4,000 customers to their destinations.

Philip Meeson, Jet2.com boss said: "We have been inundated with feedback from customers who have been telling us their experiences of travelling during the ash cloud disruption ...some good and some not so good! But they all go some way to show how Jet2.com as airline has learnt from these extraordinary events. We have been incredibly grateful for the patience and understanding shown by our customers and I would like to reassure all current and future passengers that in the event of further disruption, we will do everything in our power to make sure your holiday is not ruined."

Below is a small selection of feedback from Jet2.com customers:

"I was a passenger from Chambery to Edinburgh that was booked into a hotel and driven home by bus on the Sunday. I wish to applaud Jet2.com and the great efforts that you went to provide us with a route home. I will certainly recommend Jet2.com and will make it clear that my airline went to great lengths by sending buses from the UK, booking us into a hotel and ferrying us across the Channel. The Jet2.com man at Leeds Bradford airport deserve particular praise as he was so helpful and cheery, even at 3am on a Monday morning in a deserted airport. All arrangements, changeovers and meeting points went very smoothly and it is a testament to Jet2.com's professionalism and organisation that it did so. Thanks for everything."

Customer, Scotland

"I would just like to say that I think that Jet2.com and Jet2Holidays.com have been fantastic over this last week. My parents were due to visit me in Spain last Thursday, which was obviously cancelled. I was very impressed how you handled their situation and your customer service is second to none. Watching the 'local' Yorkshire news, via Sky in Spain, I have been proud to say that my local airline has lead the way, in my opinion over and above the supposed 'trusted' and 'big boys' of the airline industry. Your importance has been on your passengers, and not like the other airlines who are more interested in their loss/expenditure. Well done Jet2.com, you make me proud to be Yorkshire and very proud to have our own airline."

Customer, Spain

"Just to say an enormous thank you to all Jet2.com staff who helped us. Getting through to Jet2.com was easy enough every time, when ever I was told someone would ring me back THEY DID. So can I tell you we have been very fortunate that we booked a full package with Jet2.com, it was the first holiday we have had through Jet2Holidays.com. We have flown with you before but not fully booked a package can I tell you it won't be the last. I am singing your praises to people; I have emailed Sky News and BBC Look North. Basically the media are good at the gloom and doom stories but don't tell the good stories."

Customer, Leeds

"I just wanted to send an email to thank you for the excellent service you delivered to me and my group of travellers following the cancellation of our flight on Sunday from Faro to Leeds Bradford Airport. We were kept well informed and the staff at the airport were excellent. The transfer on the bus to the hotel and the quality of the accommodation was well beyond expectation. I have no concerns in recommending people travel with you if this is the high standard with which you treat your customers."

Customer, London

"Jet2.com worked tirelessly to cater for its customers in a very difficult and changing situation even providing Coaches that no one else did. I often use Jet2.com and will continue to do so. Thank you for all that you have done."

Customer, Manchester

Friendly low fares airline celebrates inaugural flight, five new routes, second aircraft, 300,000 seats and 150 jobs!

Jet2.com the friendly low fares airline, made its landmark first flight from East Midlands Airport today (Wednesday 19 May 2010). The 757's historic departure to Paphos, signalled yet further investment into the region by the airline, who went on to announce five new direct routes out of the airport, which will be serviced by a second aircraft for the base.

The inaugural flight, carrying holiday makers to Cyprus departed at 09.30 this morning and lead the way for the announcement of Jet2.com's five new sunshine destinations for summer 2011 - Alicante, Palma, and Faro with Bodrum and Rhodes being the first scheduled services for the region, bringing the total destinations from the base, offered by Jet2.com to fourteen.

All routes are available to book from today for departures from May 2011, with incredible starting fares from £39.99 one way including taxes or from £269 for great value package tours through sister company, Jet2Holidays.com. For those wanting to take to the slopes this winter, the airline also launched its dedicated routes to Chambery and Geneva this March, with starting prices from just £29.99.

In addition to the five new routes, weekly departures will be increased from 9 to 22 by summer 2011, with a second aircraft in service from May 2011 bringing the number of seats to 300,000 per annum.

In further good news for the region, the airline's sustained and significant investment at the base is set to give further support to the East Midlands business infrastructure - helping to generate an extra 150 jobs at Jet2.com and its supporting industries.

Ian Doubtfire, Managing Director at Jet2.com said, "As of today, we are now, quite literally taking off in the Midlands bringing low fare flights to a whole host of popular destinations - as well as providing substantial employment opportunities within the travel and leisure industry. I would personally like to thank everyone from the region for their continued support and we look forward to welcoming more and more customers on-board our fleet and working with our partners at East Midlands Airport to establish Jet2.com as the Midlands favourite airline."

Meanwhile Steve Heapy, Managing Director at Jet2Holidays.com added: "I am thrilled that we are able to offer our excellent value package deals to the people of the East Midlands region. It is a core focus area for the Holidays team, as we expand our choice of destinations across Europe and I would encourage customers to take advantage of our great value low prices as soon as possible and plan their 2011 escape to the sun nice and early!"

Five new routes and starting fares from East Midlands Airport for summer 2011 are:

SPAIN, ALICANTE, three departures per week, from £39.99 flight-only one way including taxes, or from £289 package holiday with Jet2Holidays departing from 12 May 2011;
TURKEY, BODRUM, weekly, from £69.99 one way flight-only including taxes, or from £329 package holiday with Jet2Holidays departing from £199 May 2011;
MAJORCA, PALMA, four departures per week from £39.99 one way including taxes, or from £269 package holiday with Jet2Holidays departing from 8 May 2011;
PORTUGAL, FARO, three departures per week from £39.99 flight-only one way including taxes, departing from 12 May 2011, alternatively for a package holiday to the Algarve from £269 with Jet2Holidays. and
GREECE, RHODES, weekly departures from £69.99 one way flight-only including taxes, or from £299 package holiday with Jet2Holidays departing from 18 May 2011.

Stephen Turner, Commercial Director, East Midlands Airport said, "It's an exciting and historic day for both the airport and the region as we see the first passengers depart, whilst celebrating the airline's decision to base a further aircraft at the airport.

"A move which undoubtedly reaffirms Jet2.com's initial commitment to the airport, the welcomed announcement is indeed positive news, bringing with it increased job opportunities for the region and a greater choice of destinations and flexibility for our passengers."

First Airline to Focus on Solutions Rather than Cancellations.

Jet2.com, has today unveiled a stringent on-going contingency plan aimed at reducing passenger disruption caused by the volcanic ash cloud.

Following further airspace closures this weekend, the leading friendly, low fare airline is offering a commitment to all customers that it will continue to do all it can to keep holiday-makers on the move over the coming months and has formalised a number of measures to considerably reduce the impact of the ash cloud. These include:

Policy of flying 'above and around' affected air space areas, regardless of increased costs due to flying longer distances and at higher altitudes;
A dedicated SMS service to give passengers up-to-the-minute information about cancellations, delays or coach replacement services;
Contingency plans for the creation of road and air hubs across Europe;
Formation of strong relationships with coach companies across the continent, meaning that Jet2.com can deploy hundreds of coaches within hours of cancellations; and
A focus on repatriation by land, air or sea if flights are cancelled.

Today, Jet2.com is encouraging all customers to provide their mobile telephone number when booking flights to ensure that they can be contacted with any changes at a moment's notice. The airline is also encouraging all passengers to visit its website regularly, especially before travel, for the most up-to-date information on cancellations, delays and re-routes.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said "We respect the decision that the authorities are making in these extremely difficult circumstances and like them, safety remains our highest priority.

"At the same time, we want to reassure customers that we are fully committed to doing our very best to ensure they are able to take their well earned holidays which is why we have formalised this contingency plan.

"We are fortunate that we have seven bases across the North, which gives us great operational flexibility in diverting aircraft where necessary. Yesterday (Sunday) alone, we provided 14 extra aircraft and 80 extra coaches in order to help 4000 affected customers and managed to get the majority of them to and from their holiday destinations with the minimum of disruption!"

"Our website, www.Jet2.com is being updated continuously with the latest information and we would like to ensure customers that we are making every endeavour to fly them safely in line with the current restrictions."

For full information about the volcanic ash disruption, visit www.Jet2.com/info

Eleven Jet2.com aircraft heading to Hamburg for Europa Cup final

The North's leading leisure airline, Jet2.com will play a key role in tonight's Europa League Final - as the airline is set to fly over 2000 ardent Fulham FC fans to Hamburg in what is set to be the biggest match in the club's 131 year history.

Taking on the might of Spain's Atletico Madrid, Roy Hodgson's men will be cheered on by their army of fans, with eleven Jet2.com aircraft flying supporters from Gatwick and Luton to Hamburg airport later today. The aircraft have been chartered by official and unofficial supporters of the club, as well as Seat cars the official sponsor of the Europa League, bringing essential support to the stands of HSH Nordbank's 51 000 capacity stadium.

Philip Meeson, Jet2.com boss said: "I'm thrilled that Jet2.com is playing such a vital role in tonight's Europa Cup Final! Everyone knows that football teams thrive on their fans' support and I'm delighted that so many supporters will be able to experience Jet2.com's friendly and welcoming service. It is fantastic to see a British team play in a European final and we look forward to bringing the Fulham fans safely back to the UK tomorrow, whatever the result may be!"

A friendly low fare hop for Prime Minister

Jet2.com, took centre stage in the post-election campaign today (7th May), by flying Prime Minister Gordon Brown back to the capital following the 2010 General Election result.

Joining a number of high profile celebrities who have already chosen to fly with the North's favourite airline, the Jet2.com 737 aircraft was chartered by Labour party officials to fly the Scottish born leader and his aides from Edinburgh to Stansted in the early hours of this morning, after Mr Brown attended the local election count in his home constituency of Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath.

The 59 year old boarded the flight at Edinburgh airport at 3.00am this morning, under the watchful glare of the world's media, touching down at a chilly Stansted just over an hour later.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said: "We are honoured to have played an integral part in the post election campaign by bringing Gordon Brown and his team quickly and efficiently back to London.

"We worked with the authorities to ensure the aircraft was fully prepared and expertly manned by our friendly cabin crew, ready to take the Labour leader back to the capital at a moment's notice.

"We are delighted to add Mr Brown's name to a long list of high profile names, including members of the Royal family, top premiership footballers, sporting legends, Hollywood film stars and the UK's favourite soap stars, who have chosen to take advantage of Jet2.com's friendly low cost service."

Sharm el Sheikh-bound flight sets off to rescue stranded passengers.

We have taken to the skies today (20th April), with a rescue flight bound for Sharm el Sheikh.

The 757 took off from Newcastle Airport today at 11am this morning to pick up 229 passengers from the Egyptian tourist resort in a bid to return them to the UK as soon as possible.

The flight is expected to land at Sharm el Sheikh International Airport this evening. Dependent on the situation regarding UK airspace and advice from the Air Traffic Control authority, NATS, it will then either transfer people back to the UK or to mainland Europe, to continue their journey by coach.

Ian Doubtfire, Jet2.com Managing Director, said: "It is our absolute priority to get our passengers back to the UK as soon as we possibly can and we are currently in the process of a wide scale repatriation programme to bring our passengers home.

"With today's clearance on airspace over Newcastle, we took the first opportunity we had to get our aircraft off the ground to help with this repatriation

"It is fantastic at last to see one of our aircraft take to the skies over Newcastle and we hope that this is the first of many over the coming days.

"In the meantime, our team is working round the clock to get people home. We have deployed over 90 coaches and are currently transferring people by land from Spain, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Canary Islands, Egypt, Cyprus, Israel and Italy."

They say three is the lucky number but for a couple from Manchester, that number is 20 million! This is because they were the 20 millionth customers to book cheap flights with Jet2.com and they were certainly made a fuss of at Manchester Airport on 13th April 2010.

Jet2.com laid out the VIP treatment for Keith Moffat and his wife, Julia as the pair prepared to board their flight. Champagne was offered and they were personally greeted by Jet2.com's Managing Director, Ian Doubtfire.

To celebrate their lucky status the couple were also given free return flights to all of the 29 destinations now available from Manchester Airport; including Salzburg which has only just been added to the growing list.

"A Significant Step in the History of the Airline"

The joyous celebrations come at a time when Jet2.com celebrate five years at Manchester Airport and expect to welcome their five millionth customer to the airport this year. It is predicted to be a busy year at Manchester Airport with two new planes and 200 flights per week likely to see over a million people fly with Jet2.com in 2010.

However, not all will get the same welcome as the Moffat's did. Mr. Doubtfire said: "Welcoming our 20 millionth passenger on-board gives us a huge cause for celebration and really is a significant step in the history of the airline which launched only eight years ago.

"This year is also very important for us at Manchester and marks another milestone in our history. Ten brand new routes from Manchester, two new aircraft and a projected one million passengers this year are some fantastic stats and underline our growth and commitment to this airport. 2010 marks five years of operations from this base and I am confident that it is due to be one of our best ever."

Local low fare airline comes to the rescue of Prince William.

Local leading friendly low fare airline, Jet2.com, has been given the royal seal of approval after Prince William joined a special Jet2.com charter flight from Switzerland to Heathrow this weekend.

The heir to the throne joins a whole host of celebrities and top sport stars, not to mention a pride of Romanian lions, which have flown with the leading low fare airline over the years.

Prince William was one of 176 passengers on the two-hour flight from Geneva to London after a skiing holiday with girlfriend Kate Middleton.

Also benefiting from Jet2.com's leading customer service this weekend was boxing legend Mike Tyson and Formula One supremo, Damon Hill.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said: "Over the years we have had the privilege of flying some extremely high profile passengers - from celebrities to sports stars - but this is the first royal that we have had on board. I am confident that Prince William will have been impressed with our fantastic customer service, comfort and punctuality and we look forward to welcoming him on-board again in the future. Who knows, we may soon be his preferred airline of choice and displaying a royal crest on our fleet!"

Mike Tyson and Damon Hill are also great additions to our Jet2.com hall of fame - it seems that we are fast becoming the stars' favourite airline!

Hit the slopes for less from East Midlands

Jet2.com, the airline with the friendly low fares, has announced it will be flying to a further two routes from East Midlands Airport. Already on sale are flights to sizzling sun destinations Lanzarote, Corfu, Dalaman, Crete, Paphos, Tenerife and Sharm El Sheikh, starting from 19th May.

In addition, the airline has put flights to fantastic ski destinations Chambery and Geneva on sale from just £29.99* so you can enjoy the snow in beautiful surroundings and have more left over for a bit of après ski!

If you love your ski getaways then Jet2.com has more great news, flights to Chambery are now on sale for winter 10/11 from Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle. Book your flights using our Low Fare Finder today.

The Gillette World Club Challenge Trophy was on display in the Jet2.com check in area at Leeds Bradford International Airport last Thursday (25th February) for travellers and rugby fans to have their photograph taken ahead of the match between Leeds Rhinos (Super League Champions) and Melbourne Storm (Australian NRL Premiers) that took place on the 28th February.

As proud sponsors of the Leeds Rhinos, Jet2.com's check-in staff wore shirts and Ronnie the Rhino (Leeds Rhinos mascot) came along to help check in passengers for the afternoon.

Airline announces a brand new service to Majorca!

The airline with the friendly low fares, Jet2.com, has today announced that it is increasing its flights from Edinburgh Airport with a brand new route to Majorca for summer 2010 plus increased frequencies on flights to Ibiza.

Majorca is the twelfth fantastic destination to be added to Jet2.com's schedule from its Scottish base, with flights to the popular sun-drenched Balearic Island on sale now for twice weekly departures from 26th June 2010.

Majorca not only boasts warm weather and great beaches, it also has plenty of sightseeing from La Seu, the stunning 14th century Gothic Cathedral to museums and art galleries. The island is also filled with fun activities from kayaking, rock climbing and hiking in the picturesque Tramuntana Mountains. The thriving resorts of Magaluf and Palma Nova are the places to go to party when the sun goes down with lively bars and nightclubs or for a more relaxed evening, sip a cocktail after a delicious meal in the restaurants found on the Passeig Maritim.

Jet2.com has also increased flights to fellow Balearic island Ibiza to three flights a week due to overwhelming customer demand.

Jet2.com flights to Majorca are on sale now from £34.99 (one way inc. taxes). Package holidays with Jet2Holidays.com will also be available to book very soon so watch this space!

For ATOL protected holidays visit www.Jet2Holidays.com.

Jet2.com successfully touched down at Doncaster Airport yesterday at 12.30pm to deliver its precious cargo of 13 lions on their way to Yorkshire Wildlife Park from their cramped conditions in Oradea Zoo in Romania.

Once landed at the airport Jet2.coms highly skilled team of Ground Operations crew including Andy Stuart, Rachel Downie, Paul Gerrish, Christopher Watson and Andrew Coupe worked tirelessly to ensure the precious cargo was offloaded quickly and most importantly safely!

Following a brief photo-call with the nation's media looking on the lions were safely transported to the Yorkshire Wildlife Park 5 miles away where they were released into their new enclosure!

To see the full rescue mission featured on the BBC news click here.

If, like Jet2.com, you want to help the lions in their fantastic new home then donate online at www.lionrescue.co.uk.

Jet2.com flies Pride of Yorkshire to freedom!

Today, friendly low fare airline Jet2.com shows that it's not only its fares that are friendly by taking part in what is to be the largest big cat rescue ever!

13 majestic lions found in a crumbling Romanian Zoo, where conditions were so bad four adult lions were stuffed together in a tiny concrete cell, have been rescued to start a new life in Yorkshire and who better than Yorkshire's leading low fare airline to rescue them?

Jet2.com leapt like Simba at the chance to schedule a free of charge flight manned by their highly trained staff who have been working around the clock to make sure the worthy operation to save the magnificent animals from their plight runs smoothly.

The airline has scheduled a flight especially to transport the kings of the jungle to their purrrrfect new home in the Yorkshire Wildlife Park. Jet2.com Pilot Warwick Swancott has battled through snow and torrential winds and rain to fly the unique rescue mission this morning where the lions, dubbed the 'Pride of Yorkshire' will begin life at their new state-of-the-art enclosure in Doncaster where they can roam free in the seven acre compound.

As the lions began to settle into their new habitat today they were thought to have been overheard roaring happily 'Jet2.com, they're a grrr-eat airline!'

If, like Jet2.com, you want to help the lions in their fantastic new home then donate online at www.lionrescue.co.uk.

The friendly low fare airline finds a purrrfect new home for 13 lions in need

This month is set to be an unforgettable one for Jet2.com as we don our safari gear and embark on a unique mission that will bring us face to face with 13 lions! We've joined forces with Yorkshire Wildlife Park to schedule a one-off flight to rescue the lions which are being poorly treated in a Romanian Zoo.

The biggest big cat movement ever, the rescue mission marks a first for Jet2.com as we charter the special flight to Budapest to bring the lions back to the UK to be re-housed at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster. The big cats, which range in age from one to 27 years old, will be re-housed at a special 10-acre enclosure with freedom to roam and play. Philip Meeson, Boss of Jet2.com said, "When we heard about the plight of the lions at the Romanian zoo, we immediately offered to provide a Jet2.com aircraft and the support of our highly trained staff free of charge to transport the big cats to their new home near Doncaster this February." "As Yorkshire's leading leisure airline, it's a great honour to be involved in what is looking to be one of the biggest ever cat rescues"

Yorkshire Wildlife Park who has raised over have raised over £120,000 to cover the rescue costs but a further £30,000 is still needed for the on-going care of the animals. All donations are welcome, so if you would like to support the rescue please visit www.lionrescue.co.uk.

Charter flight to Fort Lauderdale a first for the airline

Sunday 3rd January 2010 marked an exciting new venture for Jet2.com with it's first ever charter to Florida. The one off flight on behalf of a major Cruise operator to Fort Lauderdale picked 210 of the ships workers from Rome and Poland then flew via Manchester and Gander to its American destination.

The operation was highly successful and Jet2.com looks forward to flying the Cruise operator again in the future.

100 jobs created as airline launches course with local college

Bored of the mundane nine 'til five and looking for a new career in 2010? Friendly low fare airline, Jet2.com has today announced a unique employment initiative at its bases in Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and their new East Midlands base in a bid to train, and recruit, 100 new cabin crew for the summer 2010 season.

The successful completion of a new five-week course, backed by the Aviation Academy (Craven College), guarantees students a fixed-term contract with Jet2.com starting this summer until 1st November 2010 and includes competitive cabin crew salary and first class training in association with the Aviation Academy.

Applications for places on the courses are made through the airline's recruitment site www.Jet2.com/jobs with selection days taking place from January to March 2010 at the Aviation Academy at Leeds Bradford International Airport. Successful candidates will then proceed to enrolment onto the five-week course.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, commented: "We are looking to employ approximately 100 new cabin crew members for summer 2010, and our latest initiative is the perfect way to ensure we recruit staff trained to our high standards.

"The new roles are available across four of our bases at Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, Manchester and our new base East Midlands where we aim to build on our existing crew of outstanding individuals who genuinely love their job!"

Joanne Mills, Aviation Project Manager at Craven College said, "This unique course, developed in conjunction with Jet2.com, offers a fantastic opportunity to embark on a career within the airline industry, and I am sure it will be extremely popular.

"The academy offers the very best training which includes safety procedures, emergency situations such as fire-fighting and evacuating a cabin, medical emergencies and passenger welfare and customer service. All practical elements are taught with lessons at the Aviation Academy, within Leeds Bradford Airport using Jet2.com aircrafts."

Following successful completion of the self funded course, students will receive a letter of congratulations and certificate of attendance from the Aviation Academy, in addition to a letter from Jet2.com confirming their role.

Further information, minimum candidate requirements and application forms can all be found on www.Jet2.com/jobs or via the Aviation Academy 0113 3910919.

Jet2Holidays. online holiday brochure allows you to browse at your leisure, print off a copy, forward to a friend and click to see live holiday offers at www.Jet2Holidays.com.

Prepare to be inspired…Summer 2010 Holiday Brochure

Our Summer Holiday Collection Includes:

2 - 5* Hotels & Apartments
Self Catering to All Inclusive Holidays
1000's of resorts
Kids Stay Free places+
ATOL & ABTA Protected Holidays

Booking with Jet2Holidays is easy & great value:

Just £30pp deposit per person*
Make use of our Part Payment scheme and pay for your holiday in weekly or monthly payments
Book with a debit card and enjoy zero card charges.

+ Available at selected properties, term and conditions apply.
* Available on bookings departing in 10 weeks or more from date of booking.

Commenting on trading through the six months to the end September 2009, Philip Meeson, our Chief Executive said: "At Jet2.com, we do everything we can to pay attention to our customers needs and react as quickly as possible.

We don't always get it right first time but we try to listen and learn. The best businesses give their customers what they want and by doing that - ensuring we have low cost flights, great departure times and fabulous sunshine and ski destinations we have been able to deliver another successful year's trading. Year on year we produce great financial results and this year has proved no exception, despite the difficulties suffered by many of our competitors. We believe our friendly low fares formula and exciting new bases such as our recent East Midlands expansion have once again contributed to another fantastic year.

Thank you to all our customers and the staff at Jet2.com."

After a very successful year of trading through to the end of March 2009, we are pleased to report on the Groups trading through the first six months ending 30th September 2009.

Highlights

Turnover maintained at £272.7m
Pre-tax profits of £28.1m
Load factors increased to 81%
Interim dividend declared at 0.36p per share

Jet2.com Launches First Winter 2010/2011 Flights Jet2.com Gift Vouchers!

Helping early bookers to plan ahead for next winter, leading low fare airline, Jet2.com, has launched the first phase of its winter 2010/2011 schedule, with flights to Lanzarote and Tenerife now on sale.

The winter 2010/2011 routes now available starting from just £59.99 one way including taxes include Leeds Bradford, Manchester and Newcastle to Lanzarote and Belfast, Blackpool, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Manchester and Newcastle to Tenerife.

The launch underlines Jet2.com's commitment to its newest base, East Midlands Airport, with summer 2010 flights departing in May 2009. The East Midlands to Tenerife route is the first winter 2010/2011 service to go on sale, with more to follow shortly.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said: "Many people like to plan their holidays well ahead and this year we have responded to increased demand by our customers to launch our most popular winter 2010/2011 flights as early as possible.

"Lanzarote and Tenerife are fantastic winter holiday destinations and with our great value fares, and friendly flight times they are sure to be snapped up by sun-seekers eager to get next years' break in the diary."

Winter 2010/2011 flights now on sale include:

Leeds to Lanzarote from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011;
Manchester to Lanzarote from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011;
Newcastle to Lanzarote from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011;
Belfast to Tenerife from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 10th September 2010 to 29th April 2011;
Blackpool to Tenerife from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st October 2010 to 29th April 2011;
East Midlands to Tenerife from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011;
Leeds Bradford to Tenerife from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011;
Manchester to Tenerife from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011; and
Newcastle to Tenerife from £59.99 one way including taxes departing 1st November 2010 to 27th March 2011.

Tuesday 24th November saw the RFL GB Community Lions travel to Barcelona with Jet2.com for the France A v Great Britain Community Lions, Wednesday 25th November 2009, St Cyprien.

With a speedy check-in (kit bags included), a quick photo call and the young lions were on their way to try and beat their French counterparts near the Spanish border. The Great Britain Community Lions are the officially recognised squad representing the whole of Amateur Rugby League in Great Britain.

Jason Harvey Group Sales Manager said "Don't tackle large groups yourself; use our dedicated groups department and handover the stress to us!"

In true friendly fashion, Jet2.com has donated part of an overall £1,200 to the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Barnsley General Hospital as a thank you for looking after one our own cabin crew and her premature baby.

Earlier this year Nichola Hughes gave birth to baby Edward who was over 8 weeks early and weighed a mere 1871 grams. Edward was looked after in the SCBU for over 4 weeks until he was well enough to go home.

Since the birth of Edward, Nichola has been tirelessly fundraising for the SCBU at Barnsley General Hospital to express her gratitude to the staff. A raffle was organised, which included a pair of Jet2.com flights as first prize and Nichola also arranged an auction for a signed Barnsley Football Club shirt.

Jet2.com also held a staff dress down day across its base at Leeds Bradford Airport raising almost £200. Nichola's dedicated fundraising, along with Jet2.com's generosity, has resulted in a grand total of over £1,200 being raised allowing many more premature babies like Edward to get the special care and attention they need.

First time mum Nichola Hughes said: "I would like to thank all of the staff at Barnsley General Hospital for all their hard work and constant attention that helped Edward grow into the strong little boy he is becoming.

"It was a very difficult time for me and Edward; I really couldn't have done it without the nurses and doctors in the Special Care Baby Unit. Due to the staff's care and dedication, Edward is now happy and thriving at home with his family.

"We want to raise as much money as possible for the hospital and I would like to thank my employers Jet2.com for their help with donating prizes for the raffle and orchestrating their own internal fundraising."

Today Jet2.com staff gave a warm welcome to the Australian Rugby League Team as they boarded a flight to Paris, ahead of their match against France on Saturday as part of the Four Nations rugby league competition.

Other teams competing in the Four Nations include England and New Zealand, who will play at the Galpharm Stadium in Huddersfield this Saturday.

Us Brits may well be rooting for England to be victorious, but the Aussies always put on a good show and the matches so far have been a joy to watch.

Our boss, Philip Meeson said: "It's always a pleasure when such well known sports teams and personalities decide to fly with Jet2.com. We often see famous faces and I believe it's testament to the friendly service and convenient flight times we offer

The Baltic Air Charter Association 60th Anniversary lunch was held yesterday, 29th October, along with their annual Excellence Awards at which Jet2.com was announced as Passenger Airline of the Year!

Jet2Charters.com has been working extremely hard and it is fantastic that the dedicated team have finally been rewarded with this accolade, which is voted for by our charter customers.

Nick Godfrey, General Manager - Charter Sales said:

"Jet2.com are very proud to receive the BACA Passenger Airline of the Year award for excellence 2009.

The voting for this award comes from our Customers who are clearly telling us that we are working with them extremely well. The whole Jet2Charters ethos is to work in partnership with our customers. We want to work with them to ensure that the end product is what they want and what they expect.

This award shows the growing presence of Jet2Charters within the industry, and the acknowledgement that we are providing an excellent customer service both to our charter customers and to their passengers who experience our charter product. I am proud to have an excellent, hard working and friendly team working under me and this award is proof that their efforts are well received by our customers.

I would like to thank all of the BACA members who voted for us and hope that we can continue to provide the level of service you demand for the remainder of 2009 and into 2010."

If you are interested in chartering a Jet2.com aircraft, please visit www.Jet2charters.com for more information or for scheduled flights from £9.99 one way including taxes visit www.Jet2.com.

Jet2.com was honoured at the Northern Ireland Travel and Tourism Awards held on 16th October after winning the award for the Best Travel Internet Booking System.

A lot of focus continues on the development of our booking system in order to provide an easy and positive experience for our customers and this fantastic award shows we are on the right track.

To experience our award winning booking system for yourself visit www.jet2.com for flights from only £9.99 one way including taxes.

Jet2.com has today established itself as Manchester Airport's biggest scheduled leisure airline following the launch of a further four new routes (Dubrovnik, Split, Reus (Costa Dorada) and Prague for summer 2010.

Jet2.com will now serve nine new destinations next year, taking the total routes from Manchester with Jet2.com up to 28.

Today's announcement means that Jet2.com now offers low fare flights to more destinations than any other airline operating scheduled services out of Manchester Airport and is the only airline to offer flights to Reus (Costa Dorada) from Manchester.

Aircraft at the North West base will be increased to service the new routes with 140,000 extra seats for summer 2010, up 20% on this year, and a total 1,000,000 seats now available per year from Manchester.

Starting fares include:

Dubrovnik from £49.99 one-way including taxes departing from 29th April. Flying twice weekly (Thursdays and Sundays)
Split from £49.99 one way including taxes departing from 8th May. Flying twice weekly (Tuesday and Saturday)
Reus (Costa Dorada) from £29.99 one-way including taxes departing from 25th May. Flying twice a week (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
Prague from £19.99 one-way including taxes departing from 1st April. Flying four times a week (Mondays, Thursday, Friday and Sunday)

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said:

"At Jet2.com we are bucking the trend of other airlines by significantly increasing our services across our bases. Now as Manchester�s favourite and biggest scheduled leisure airline we are leading the pack, offering the most number of scheduled leisure destinations."

"Our continued investment will see us increase our fleet at Manchester quite significantly and create hundreds of new jobs both at the airport and within the tourism industry as a whole."

"Next summer will see us fly up to 140,000 extra passengers to fantastic destinations across Europe and northern Africa, ensuring that people living in and around the region have an unprecedented choice of holiday destination."

"We have carefully planned our schedule and flight times to suit our passenger�s needs, giving them the option to take short breaks or longer holidays of seven, ten or 14 days. We also pride ourselves in offering friendly flights times, ensuring that our passengers get the most out of their holiday"

ATOL protected holidays are also be available to Dubrovnik, Split, Reus and Prague for summer 2010, bookable with a low deposit of just £30 per person. Customers can choose from room only to all-inclusive packages, from 2 � 5 star hotels and apartments across a range of resorts.

Located in the far south of Croatia, Dubrovnik is often referred to as the jewel of the Adriatic coast. With beautiful beaches, chic bars, boutique hotels and restaurants, alongside many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the picturesque walled-city offers something for all types of holidaymakers

Split is the second largest city in Croatia located on the Adriatic Coast. With a vast history ranging back to prehistoric times, Split is packed with evidence of its past including a grand Roman palace, medieval streets and further examples of inhabitation by Greeks, Venetians, Austrians and French. With a stunning coastline, clear sandy beaches and crystalline seas, the city is also a great location for a beach holiday.

Located to the south of Barcelona, Reus Airport provides ideal access in to Spain�s popular Costa Dorada (also known as the Golden Coast due to its extensive golden beaches). The ideal holiday location for families, the area benefits from beautiful coastlines, quaint fishing towns and the world famous Port Aventura theme park.

Prague is the ideal destination for a short city break with stunning architecture, a rich history and plenty of shops, markets and cobbled street to explore. It also offers an exciting nightlife with a selection of bars and clubs

To book flights from Manchester for summer 2010 visit www.jet2.com or for ATOL protected holidays visit www.jet2holidays.com.

Fowler Welch-Coolchain Limited is delighted to announce the recent acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Bawdsey Haulage Ltd. Incorporated in 1999, Bawdsey Haulage provides container logistics services from its base in the Port of Felixstowe. The company employs 45 people and operates a fleet of 28 tractor units and 75 skeletal trailers. The company has revenues of around £4m per annum.

As an established business, Bawdsey Haulage provides excellent service levels to its diverse customer base but the company had been struggling to grow the business during the recent financial crisis. Michael Dabbs, the previous owner felt that the time was right to move on by selling to a larger organisation that could drive the business forward. Bawdsey�s quality workforce and strategic location will be great assets for the enlarged Fowler Welch operation.

Additionally, Fowler Welch is pleased to announce the opening of a new office in Tees-Port. Managed by Kevin Nattrass, the Tees-Port office will coordinate container traffic in the North East region, providing a local presence for clients with links into Fowler Welch�s wider network.

These developments will greatly enhance Fowler Welch�s ability to service its rapidly growing container transport market in Felixstowe and Tees-Port and will augment its existing container operations in Tilbury, Thamesport, Sheerness, Southampton and Liverpool. This strategy is part of Fowler Welch�s aim to deliver a true end-to-end supply chain capability for its existing and future client base.

Brand new service to Dubrovnik and Faro - fly from just £34.99 one-way including taxes

Leading low fare airline, Jet2.com, has today (23rd September) announced the launch of two brand new routes direct from Edinburgh Airport for summer 2010 to the stunning holiday hot spots of Dubrovnik and Faro.

Jet2.com will be the only airline to offer a direct scheduled service to Dubrovnik in Croatia from Edinburgh for next summer with fares for the weekly service starting from £49.99 per person one way including taxes. Flights depart from 2nd May 2010.

The new service from Edinburgh to Faro in Portugal will offer passengers flights at a time that suits them with an increased frequency of service (three times weekly) and the best possible �friendly� flight times. Flights to Faro are on sale now and start from £34.99 one way including taxes with flights departing from 20th May 2010.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said:

"Dubrovnik and Faro are extremely popular holiday destinations and we are confident that these new routes are going to be hugely successful additions to our services from Edinburgh."

To read the full article click here.

"We are committed to offering our passengers routes into brand new resorts, not currently served by other airlines at our bases. We will be the only operator to offer scheduled services to Dubrovnik next summer and will offer an enhanced service into Faro � flying three times a week at friendly flight times."

"Our summer schedule for 2010 has a fantastic choice of holiday hot spots at great fares offering something for everyone."

Gordon Dewar, Managing Director of Edinburgh Airport, said:

"Jet2.com�s continued growth from Edinburgh Airport is further good news for passengers and we are sure these new routes will prove popular with Scottish holidaymakers. Despite the recession, the capital continues to attract new business and leisure destinations and this latest round of expansion from Jet2.com, now one of our biggest airlines in terms of destinations served, underlines the airline's continued confidence in Edinburgh Airport. With a major investment programme now underway, Edinburgh Airport is well placed to emerge from the recession stronger than ever." Located in the far south of Croatia, Dubrovnik is often referred to as the new Riviera. With beautiful beaches, chic bars, boutique hotels and restaurants, alongside many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the picturesque city offers something for all types of holidaymakers."

Providing easy access into Portugal�s Algarve, Faro is the perfect holiday destination for families and couples alike. With some of the cleanest beaches in Europe, a lively nightlife and cafe culture and plenty of activities for families, the Algarve also offers a number of historical sites to explore."

Route and starting fares for summer 2010 include:

Dubrovnik (starting 2nd May 2010) � from £49.99 one way including taxes
Faro (starting 20th May 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes
Ibiza (starting 27th May 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes
La Rochelle (starting 29th May 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes
Menorca (starting 28th May 2010) � from £39.99 one way including taxes
Murcia (starting 3rd April 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes
Sardinia (starting 15th May 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes
Prague (starting 28th March 2010) � from £29.99 one way including taxes
Toulouse (starting 29th May 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes
Venice (starting 24th April 2010) � from £34.99 one way including taxes

To book flights from Edinburgh for summer 2010 click here.

Jet2holidays.com has launched its second holidays brochure for Winter 09/10 into Summer 2010. Showcasing a number of holidays across a great choice of sunshine destinations, including year-round holiday destinations such as The Canaries, Algarve and Sharm el Sheikh and for summer 2010 the likes of Turkey, Greece and The Balearic islands.

We would love to have featured our entire range within the brochure, but it simply was not possible! Instead, we show a handful of holidays by destination and resorts to get those holiday ideas flowing. Our newest destinations for Summer 2010 - Gran Canaria, Kos, Madeira and Tunisia � just missed this edition but will definitely feature in the next one so watch this space.

As a holiday company, we strive to offer our customers the best value holidays throughout the year to the destinations our customers want to visit. Therefore, what better way to flaunt our holidays than in a brochure. If you did not receive a copy by mail, get signed up to make sure the next edition flies into your letterbox click here to sign up.

You can also view copies on board as well as online, to view the online version with live links to the latest holiday offers click here.

Guide prices are included in the brochure but if you like what you see, jump on our website, call our Leeds based Call Centre free on 0800 408 5594 or pop into your local travel agent and see what we can do for you.

We hope you enjoy reading the brochure and look forward to welcoming you on a holiday with Jet2holidays.com soon.

Jet2holidays.com - What�s new?

Lowest deposit offer in the market � just £30pp to secure your holiday on bookings made 10 weeks or before departure.
Don't forget, you can now book holidays to Gran Canaria, Kos, Madeira and Tunisia from May 2010 starting from £249 per person for 7 nights: Plus you can secure your summer 2010 holiday with a deposit of just £30 per person.
Manage My Booking � to help our customers budget for their holiday, we have introduced a part payment scheme, allowing customers to pay as little or as much towards the cost of their holiday up to the balance due date.
No card charges apply for using a debit card to book your holiday.
Jet2holidays customers can now depart from East Midlands Airport to 7 new destinations from May 2010. Lanzarote, Tenerife, Corfu, Crete, Cyprus, Sharm el Sheikh and Turkey.

Online Version of the brochure � View here!

First scheduled service to Madeira from Manchester; flights from just £49.99 one-way including taxes

Jet2.com has launched the North West region�s first low cost service to the beautiful island of Madeira from Manchester Airport. The announcement marks the fifth new summer 2010 route for Manchester Airport and Jet2.com, with brand new services to Tunisia, Kos, Gran Canaria and Venice launched in recent weeks and 250 extra jobs created from the airlines expansion. Flights to Madeira (Funchal) are now on sale starting from £49.99 one way including taxes, Flights start from 3rd May 2010, departing on Mondays throughout the summer season. Holidaymakers can also take advantage of holiday packages with Jet2holidays.com from £299* per person for a 7 night 3 star break.

An archipelago off the coast of Portugal, Madeira offers year-round sunshine as well as beautiful natural beaches, rugged coastlines, volcanic caves and breathtaking views. Ideal for water sport enthusiasts, the island�s Atlantic location offers the perfect spot for diving, fishing, surfing, whale and dolphin spotting as well as one of Europe's first underwater nature reserves on the Garajau coast line. Holidaymakers can also take advantage of Madeira�s capital, Funchal, which provides a host of shopping opportunities as well as bustling squares and streets with an abundance of great restaurants with fantastic local cuisine.

Philip Meeson, boss at Jet2.com said:

"Madeira is a stunning island and an absolutely fantastic summer holiday destination which I am sure will be extremely popular with our customers in the North West and beyond.

We are the only airline to offer direct scheduled services to Madeira meaning that this service will benefit people from the North West and beyond. At Jet2.com, we are committed to offering our customers a wide range of holiday destinations, at friendly flight times from their local airport. We believe that this approach is why we have continued to see a great demand for our flights from Manchester while other airlines are pulling routes from the airport."

Fly direct to Jersey for Summer 2010 from just £29.99 one way including taxes

Jet2.com, the leading low fare airline, today (4th September 2009) furthered its commitment to Blackpool with the launch of the airport�s first ever direct scheduled service to Jersey for Summer 2010.

The new weekly service to the popular Channel Island will commence from 28th May 2010 with flights now on sale from just £29.99 one way including taxes.

Friendly low fare airline, Jet2.com, will be the only operator to offer a direct service to Jersey from Blackpool, giving people living in and around the region even more choice when it comes to travelling from their local airport as well as encouraging visitors to Blackpool itself.

With beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and a rich history, Jersey is the ideal destination for a short break or longer holiday. The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey benefits from a sunny climate, numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as the famous annual Battle of the Flowers, as well as being an ideal location for water-sport enthusiasts. Shopaholics can benefit from VAT free shopping in the island�s high street stores, markets and independent shops, while animal lovers can get up close and personal to a vast array of endangered species at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Jersey�s famous zoo.

Today�s announcement means that holidaymakers from Blackpool and the surrounding areas can now book flights with Jet2.com to seven fantastic sunshine or city destinations for their summer 2010 break. Destinations now on sale include Jersey, Malaga, Faro, Majorca, Alicante, Murcia and Belfast.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said:

"We are committed to offering our customers as much choice as possible when it comes to their holiday destination. This will be the first time that people have been able to fly to Jersey from Blackpool International and we are confident that this new route will be a great success. "Blackpool is a fantastic airport which is easily accessible to people across the North West. We now have seven great destinations on sale for 2010 and look forward to welcoming many more passengers to what is an extremely important and successful base for us."

For more information about Jet2.com or for bookings, visit www.Jet2.com

Jet2.com, the airline with the friendly low fares, are pleased to announce flights are now on sale for exciting new route Tunisia from Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle from 69.99*. Seven night package holidays are also available with Jet2holidays.com starting at 259 pp (Half Board).

Hot destination Tunisia offers stunning lush scenery, golden sandy beaches and waters perfect for diving, the Sahara Desert, beautiful National Parks and golf greens not to mention the history seen in plenty of Roman ruins that give a fascinating insight in this countries rich heritage.

Please see our destination guide for more information and book using our Low Fare Finder today!

*All one way inc. taxes.

Fowler Welch-Coolchain has renewed its contract with Cybit for the provision of vehicle telematics. Cybit's Fleetstar Online will integrate with Fowler Welch's transport management system to provide real-time service performance data as well as remote temperature management for refrigerated vehicles.

With Seven exciting New Routes...and 250 New Jobs!

Today Jet2.com, the airline with the friendly low fares, has announced the launch of a brand new base at East Midlands Airport with flights to 7 fantastic scorching sun destinations starting at £59.99 (one way inc. taxes) available to book today for departures from May 2010.

This announcement from Jet2.com shows substantial investment for the Midlands, creating over 130,000 seats and seven new direct seat-only destinations from East Midlands Airport plus 250 new jobs for the region. It will also be possible to book package holidays through tour operator Jet2holidays.com to these destinations from £269 per person for seven nights.

The seven new routes on sale today from East Midlands Airport for summer 2010 are:

Lanzarote from £59.99 departing 20th May 2010
Dalaman (Turkey) from £69.99 departing 21st May 2010
Corfu from £59.99 departing 24th May 2010
Crete from £69.99 departing 25th May 2010
Cyprus, Paphos from £69.99 departing 19th May 2010
Tenerife from £59.99 departing 21st May 2010
Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt) from £79.99 departing 22nd May 2010

*All one way inc. taxes.

For more information about Jet2.com or to book online today visit www.jet2.com

Jet2.com looks forward to welcoming East Midlands passengers onboard soon!

Today Jet2.com announced five new summer 2010 routes from its Newcastle base creating a staggering 100,000 extra seats and 450 new jobs. The five brand new Jet2.com routes for the region are Dalaman, Crete, Gran Canaria, Paphos and Sharm el Sheikh. The new routes start flying in May 2010 and are on sale now at a starting price of 59.99, one way, including taxes. The additional Jet2.com destinations will mean more employment for the area with the creation of over 450 new jobs at Jet2.com and supporting industries.

Philip Meeson, boss at Jet2.com said:

"We see the North East as having real growth potential for our leisure business. The people here have really embraced Jet2.com and love flying with us. The new routes are in response to that demand and the new jobs will also hopefully show our renewed commitment to this great region. We will be working closely with the airport to deliver this enhanced service.

"We believe we are developing a real understanding of what the people of the North East want from their holidays - fantastic leisure destinations, low fares and a friendly service. This is proving to be a winning formula and with the five new routes we have just announced, we will continue to give our passengers the destinations they want."

New Destinations and starting fares for summer 2010 now on sale from Newcastle are:

Dalaman from £69.99 one way including taxes departing from 7th May 2010
Crete from £69.99 one way including taxes departing from 25th May 2010
Gran Canaria from £59.99 one way including taxes departing from 1st May 2010
Paphos from £69.99 one way including taxes departing from 5th May 2010
Sharm El Sheikh from £79.99 one way including taxes departing from 1st April 2010

In addition to the five new routes, Jet2.com also goes on sale today with flights for Summer 2010 for Corfu, Cork, Pisa, Rhodes and Split. The airline also has increased its service in summer for Tenerife, which will now operate three times a week and Lanzarote, which will now operate twice a week with more new routes for the base to come soon.

David Laws, chief executive of Newcastle International said, "Newcastle International's partnership with Jet2.com has been given another significant boost today.

"With the launch of these new routes, Jet2.com will be providing our customers with additional choice and flexibility for holidays to some of our most popular sunshine destinations - and at low-cost too. The continued expansion of Jet2.com services from Newcastle International is great news for passengers in the region and demonstrates the confidence and commitment the airline has to Newcastle International and the North East."

Jet2holidays.com has launched its summer schedule for 2010 with holidays direct from Blackpool Airport to Europe's hot spots from just £189 per person including transfers.

With disappointing summer weather in the UK this year, Jet2holidays is urging people in the North West to plan ahead for their summer 2010 escape by booking now for some guaranteed sunshine next year. And book now, and pay a low deposit of just £30 per person!

Jet2holidays.com holidays to Malaga, Alicante, Faro and Majorca are now on sale with holidays departing from 28th March 2010 throughout the summer period. Our best 2010 holiday offers from Blackpool are:

Benidorm - 7 nights SC from £214 per person including transfers. Price based on 2 sharing staying at the 2* Studios Benidorm departing on the 8th May.
Costa del Sol - 7 nights SC from £218 per person including transfers. Price based on 2 sharing staying at the 2* Veramar Apartments, Fuengirola departing on the 5th May.
Algarve - 7 nights SC from £189 per person including transfers. Price based on 4 people sharing staying at the 3* Club Praia Da Rocha Apartments. Family Friendly!
Majorca - 7 nights SC from £249 per person inc transfers. Price based on 2 people sharing staying at the 3* Club Cala D'or. Family Friendly!

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2holidays.com, said:

Despite high hopes for the weather in the UK this summer it has been pretty dismal. We want to give people in the North West the chance to book now for some guaranteed sunshine next year, which is why we have launched our summer 2010 schedule earlier than ever.

Blackpool Airport provides a great service for people across the North West, especially as it is so easily accessible for people across the region. With the launch of our summer routes for next year, we are confident that we are offering holidaymakers in Blackpool and beyond fantastic holiday prices to some of Europe's most popular holiday destinations.

Book online at Jet2holidays.com or freephone 0800 408 5599.

Jet2holidays.com has today (17th August) launched three new holiday destinations for summer 2010 direct from Manchester Airport to Kos and Gran Canaria, which are brand new scheduled services not currently served by the North West base. The new routes also means the creation of 250 new jobs and the announcement comes as the airline revealed August has been its busiest ever month for bookings since it started flying over six years ago.

Further increasing its commitment to holidaymakers in the North West, Jet2holidays.com has also increased its frequency of its summer 2010 services to Lanzarote, Dalaman, Sharm el Sheikh and Tel Aviv. As a result of this expansion a new 737 aircraft will now be based at the airport taking the total number of Jet2.com aircraft at Manchester to 7 with 100,000 extra seats created for the summer period. Take advantage of these fantastic holidays to Kos and Gran Canaria:

Kos - 7 nights SC from only £259 per person, inc transfers. Price based on 2 people sharing departing on the 9th June staying at the 2* Stenna Apartments, Kefalos; and
Gran Canaria - 7 nights SC from only £269 per person inc transfers. Price based on 2 people sharing departing on the 8th May staying in the 3* Oasis Bungalows.

Philip Meeson, boss at Jet2holidays.com said:

Manchester Airport is an extremely important base for us and we are committed to providing people in the North West with unrivalled choice when it comes to their holiday destination.

It is fantastic to be able to offer people flying from Manchester a number of brand new holiday destinations direct from the region. No other airline currently operates a scheduled service to Kos and Venice and we are confident that these will be extremely popular routes.

We have a great understanding of what the people of Manchester want from their holidays - fantastic leisure destinations, low fares and a friendly service. This is proving to be a winning formula, which seems to be working this summer with August being a bumper month for bookings. With the new routes we have just announced, we will continue giving people what they want.

Andrew Cornish, Managing Director of Manchester Airport commented:

"This news is a real boost to holidaymakers travelling from the North West. Manchester Airport is renowned for serving a wide range of destinations and the additions of these scheduled services to Kos and Venice mean that we are continuing to offer people in the region and further afield an unprecedented choice when it comes to their holiday destination. The fact that Jet2.com is continuing to expand its services from Manchester is extremely encouraging to the airport and the region as a whole."

Book online at Jet2holidays.com or freephone 0800 408 5599

Summer 2010 Schedule from Manchester Airport announced; Jet2.com reports busiest ever bookings in August and creation of 250 new jobs

Jet2.com has today (17th August) launched three new routes for summer 2010 direct from Manchester Airport to Kos, Venice and Gran Canaria with Kos and Venice being brand new scheduled services not currently served by the North West base. The new routes also means the creation of 250 new jobs and the announcement comes as the airline revealed August has been its busiest ever month for bookings since it started flying over six years ago.

Further increasing its commitment to holidaymakers in the North West, Jet2.com has also increased its frequency of its summer 2010 services to Lanzarote, Dalaman, Sharm el Sheikh and Tel Aviv. As a result of this expansion a new 737 aircraft will now be based at the airport taking the total number of Jet2.com aircraft at Manchester to 7 with 100,000 extra seats created for the summer period. Destinations and starting fares for summer 2010 now on sale from Manchester include:

Venice from £29.99 one way including taxes departing from 3rd March 2010
Kos from £69.99 one way including taxes departing from 26th May 2010
Gran Canaria from £59.99 departing from 1st May 2010
Budapest from £29.99 departing from 28th March 2010
Rome from £29.99 departing from 28th March 2010
Nice from £29.99 departing from 13th May 2010
Pisa from £29.99 departing from 27th May 2010

Philip Meeson, boss at Jet2.com said:

"Manchester Airport is an extremely important base for us and we are committed to providing people in the North West with unrivalled choice when it comes to their holiday destination.

"It is fantastic to be able to offer people flying from Manchester a number of brand new holiday destinations direct from the region. No other airline currently operates a scheduled service to Kos and Venice and we are confident that these will be extremely popular routes.

"We have a great understanding of what the people of Manchester want from their holidays - fantastic leisure destinations, low fares and a friendly service. This is proving to be a winning formula, which seems to be working this summer with August being a bumper month for bookings. With the new routes we have just announced, we will continue giving people what they want."

Andrew Cornish, Managing Director of Manchester Airport commented:

"This news is a real boost to holidaymakers travelling from the North West. Manchester Airport is renowned for serving a wide range of destinations and the additions of these scheduled services to Kos and Venice mean that we are continuing to offer people in the region and further afield an unprecedented choice when it comes to their holiday destination. The fact that Jet2.com is continuing to expand its services from Manchester is extremely encouraging to the airport and the region as a whole."

To book a flight from Manchester at great prices click here

With the UK's predicted BBQ Summer well and truly over, Jet2.com has announced that 8 routes have gone on sale for next summer to ensure passengers can book flights and guarantee their spot in the sun next year!

The airline with the friendly low fares has put the following routes on sale for summer 2010 including Bergerac in France, a brand new destination for Jet2.com.

Avignon - £29.99
Bergerac - £29.99
La Rochelle - £29.99
Nice - £29.99
Pisa - £29.99
Rome - £29.99
Toulouse - £29.99
Venice - £29.99

See website for flight times and to book online today!

Leeds Carnegie have announced that Yorkshire-based airline Jet2.com will be the clubs official main sponsor for their return to the Guinness Premiership next season as the club unveiled their new look kit today.

The kit was modelled by new signing Marco Wentzel who arrived in Leeds today from South Africa having played for Guinness Premiership rivals Leicester Tigers last season.

Leeds Carnegie fans will get to see their team, complete with five new signings, in their new kit when they play their first game of the season against Newcastle Falcons on Sunday 6th September, kick off 3pm.

The home kit is predominantly dark blue with white and amber bands across the shoulder and down the side. It features the logo of Jet2.com on the front alongside that of associate sponsors Caddicks and kit suppliers ISC. The alternative shirt is white with green and purple bands, the colours of major partners Leeds Metropolitan University. The replica shirts will be available for supporters to buy from the beginning of August.

Commenting on the announcement Leeds Rugby Commercial Director Rob Oates said:

"We are delighted that Jet2.com have decided to increase their support of the club this season, especially as it is such a significant year for us on our return to the Guinness Premiership. Jet2.com are fantastic partners and have been for three years. I am sure that the players will do the kit proud as they take on teams from across England, Wales, Italy, France and Romania in the forthcoming season."

Marco Wentzel, who recently played against the British and Irish Lions on their tour of South Africa, is delighted to finally arrive at Headingley Carnegie. He added, "It is really great to finally be here now and I am looking forward to getting to know my team mates and my way around Leeds.

"The new kit looks great and I am sure there will be lots of fans wearing them on the opening day of the season when we take on Newcastle," added Wentzel.

Ian Gill, Marketing Director, Jet2.com, said:

"As a family and leisure airline, we like to support the community around us, as much as we can. Headingley Carnegie is a great family destination for Leeds and the surrounding areas and as such we are thrilled to be involved and look forward to a successful season ahead."

What are you waiting for? Get booking now for the best fares!

Leeds Bradford International Airport (LBIA) announced this week the latest quarterly punctuality statistics, with an impressive 93% of flights being either early or on time - that is top of a comparable CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) punctuality report of other airports released today!

LBIA published its own data to dovetail into statistics provided by the CAA on a selection of other airports across the country:

LBIA data (charter and scheduled flights early or on time): 93.2%
CAA data* (charter and scheduled flights early or on time**):
83.5% Newcastle Airport
79% Glasgow Airport
77% All regional Airports
76% Birmingham Airport
74.5% Manchester Airport
73% London airports
74.5% Manchester Airport
70% Edinburgh Airport

During January to March 2009, 69.4% of flights departing or arriving at LBIA were on time, 23.8% were early and just 6.8% were delayed.

Jet2.com operates 38 routes out of Leeds Bradford with 99% of all movements from the airport.

Philip Meeson, Boss of Jet2.com commented:

"I am especially pleased with the on time performance of flights out of Leeds Bradford Airport Jet2.com's low fares and exceptional service are what keeps our customers coming back to travel to our exciting destinations. I really appreciate all the hard-work of the employees at Leeds Bradford Airport and Jet2.com who have made this fantastic achievement happen."

Jet2.com operates 38 routes out of Leeds Bradford with 99% of all movements from the airport. If you would like to book an on-time cheap flight to a Jet2.com destination click here

Inaugural flight to Tel Aviv departs with dignitaries onboard

The inaugural Jet2.com flight from Manchester Airport direct to Tel Aviv, Israel departs today (21st May). Jet2.com is the only airline to offer a direct route from the North of England, following the demise of other services.

The first flight departed at 10am on Thursday 21st May with Ian Doubtfire, MD at Jet2.com, Andrew Cornish, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, Lee Warren, Fleet Planning Manager at Jet2.com, Janice Mathers, Commercial Manager at Jet2.com, and special guest Rabbi Brodie from Beth Din in attendance to celebrate the launch of the flight to Tel Aviv.

Rabbi Brodie said:

"I am delighted that Jet2.com has launched this direct route to Tel Aviv which is sure to appeal to many travellers.

This welcome investment into tourism to Israel will undoubtedly be of benefit to the consumer and strengthen links between the North of England and Tel Aviv." The airline is so confident that the service will be such a popular addition to its Manchester schedule that the route has recently been increased from weekly to twice weekly on the 21st December to 4th January and from 22nd March to 26th April."

Andrew Cornish, Managing Director for Manchester Airport, said:

"Jet2.com has been one of the success stories in the airline industry over the last few years. The Tel Aviv route will strengthen its position further at Manchester and offer both business and leisure passengers the option of visiting Israel."

Ian Doubtfire, MD of Jet2.com said:

"The inaugural flight to Tel Aviv marks and emphasises the commitment Jet2.com has to explore a variety of new markets and countries. Tel Aviv is a thriving and cosmopolitan beach city that makes an exciting holiday destination.

As the only direct route from the North, we are in an unrivalled position to offer both the lowest ever fares and fastest service into Israel. Tel Aviv is an extremely popular destination and we are confident there will be a huge demand for this service."

The early bird catches the worm and you really can bag a fantastic holiday deal if you book your Winter holiday now. The following routes have just gone on sale from Leeds Bradford Airport, and we are delighted to announce the start of holidays to Sharm El Sheikh direct from Newcastle Airport.

Leeds Bradford - Algarve from only £169 per person
Leeds Bradford - Costa Del Sol from only £205 per person
Newcastle - Sharm El Sheikh from only £374 per person

Book now only pay a £30 deposit per person on your Winter

Fowler Welch-Coolchain's new website went live on Wednesday 20th May 2009. Incorporating the latest web technology, including an interactive site location tool, the new site will give Fowler Welch's customers the latest information on the company with easy access to contact details, services, news and other information.

Jet2.com's newest members of Cabin Crew have earned their Wings following an intense programme of training in safety procedures, first aid and service.

The latest graduates now join the ranks of Jet2.com's existing Cabin Crew ready to help wing passengers to fabulous destinations over the summer with both comfort and safety the priorities.

Congratulations to everyone who has earned their wings so far and good luck to all the ladies and gentlemen working towards achieving theirs ready for the summer.

If you haven't yet decided on that all important holiday getaway yet, then you'll be thanking your lucky stars, because now you can holiday in the delightful resorts of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem or The Dead Sea in Israel, or a little closer to home in Split which can be found in up and coming Croatia!

Choose from the vibrant and modern resort of Tel Aviv with its sun kissed beaches, designer shopping, swanky bars and restaurants; or indulge yourself at one of the many fabulous resorts in the Dead Sea where a swim in the sea is a pampering experience in itself, or why not choose to stay in the spiritual capital of Jerusalem, with both old and modern parts, budget to top notch hotels and a whole lot of sightseeing by day and the bright lights of the clubs and bars by night.

We already offer package holidays to Dubrovnik in Croatia, and now Jet2holidays.com can take you further North to the second largest city in Croatia - Split. With its superb beaches and climate, an exciting nightlife, culture and history, there are some wonderful resorts to stay; Check out the delightful resort of Brela and charming Makarska plus many more!

Holidays to Israel depart from Manchester airport from the 21st May 09 flying direct to Tel Aviv airport. Package holidays to Israel can be booked for durations of 7 and 14 nights, and start from £571 per person including flights and accommodation. Flight only fares start from £63.99 one way including taxes.

From the 2nd May, 7, 14 and 21 night package holidays will be available to book from Newcastle airport starting from £306 per person, so why not visit Jet2holidays.com today and browse through the great choice of accommodation on offer in the very best resorts - book now!

Direct flights to Canary Island favourite available from £68.99!

Northern Ireland's winter sun seekers will have even more choice this year with Jet2.com's launch of direct flights to Tenerife from Belfast International Airport.

Flights to the popular holiday hot spot, which will depart weekly on a Friday from 30th October, are on sale today with fares starting from a sizzling £68.99 each way including taxes.

The largest of the Spanish Canary Islands, Tenerife is a firm favourite with a wide range of sun worshippers, from young couples to families, providing a wonderful holiday destination for all ages and interests.

Famous for the bright lights and beach resorts, such as Playa De Las Americas and Los Cristianos, it also boasts volcanic landscapes, lush valleys and whitewashed villages - catering for a variety of needs and tastes.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said:

"This new service reinforces our commitment to offering our customers even more choice when it comes to their holiday destination. �We strive to provide only the best and Tenerife gives some of the best year round sun to help people get through the winter months.

It is a beautiful island, which is hugely popular with holidaymakers from the UK and we expect a huge influx of travellers on our flights - from families and couples after the captivating culture of the island, to young people looking to sample the party spirit.� With plenty of scope for sightseeing, romantic breaks and all round fun in the sun, Tenerife makes the perfect destination for all."

Direct flights with Jet2.com from Belfast to Tenerife start from £68.99 one way including taxes.

Visit www.Jet2.com for bookings and more information.

Jet2.com, the friendly low fares airline, has gone on sale today with flights from Leeds Bradford to Sharm el Sheikh for Winter 09/010.

Passengers travelling from Leeds can now take advantage of flights to Sharm El Sheikh from £67.99 one-way inc. taxes through the Winter period.

Sharm El Sheikh is an ideal winter getaway located on the eastern shore of the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula with clear warm waters of the Red Sea, ancient Egyptian history, desert, and a fantastic nightlife that make it a fantastic destination for everyone.

"Lowest ever fares" promised

Jet2.com has today (15 January 2009) launched the first truly low-fare service to Tel Aviv from Manchester Airport - it will be the only airline to offer a direct route from the North of the UK, following the demise of other services.

The weekly service, which will begin from Thursday 21 May 2009, is set to provide an important gateway for the north's Jewish community to one of Israel's largest cities. The airline is so confident that the service will be such a popular addition to its Manchester schedule that from October the route is set to increase to twice weekly, departing Sundays and Thursdays.

Tel Aviv is a thriving and cosmopolitan beach city that makes an exciting holiday destination. With buzzing nightlife, cafe culture, shopping, beautiful beach and a historic old town, the city offers a sophisticated break suitable for all.

With flights now on sale from just £70.99 each way including taxes, Jet2.com is offering the lowest ever fares and an unbeatable direct service to the popular Israeli city.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, commented: "Tel Aviv is an extremely popular destination and we are confident there will be a huge demand for this service. As the only direct route from the North, we are in an unrivalled position to offer both the lowest ever fares and fastest service into Israel.

"This route launch is extremely significant for Jet2.com and emphasises our drive to continue to innovate and expand our reach into a variety of countries and markets."

Adrian Cohen, Managing Director of Israel Travel Service, commented: "I am extremely excited and pleased to hear that Jet2.com is launching this service to Tel Aviv and support it 100%.

"This welcome investment into tourism to Israel will undoubtedly be of benefit to the consumer and will strengthen the links between Manchester and Tel Aviv."

For more information on free online check-in, buying Jet2.com gift vouchers, pre-booking meals or joining myJet2, visit www.jet2.com.

Dart Group, the parent company of Jet2.com and Fowler Welch-Coolchain, posted interim results for the half year ended 30th September 2008 on 4th December with key points as follows:

Turnover up 8% to £272.8 million (2007: £252.9m)
Pre-tax profits up 97% to £36.3m (2007: £18.4m)
Underlying pre-tax profits up 175% to £33.5m (2007: £12.2m)
Aviation load factors increased to 80.4% (2007: 74.0%)
£20.3m cash generated from operating activities (2007: £0.5m outflow)

To download the full report in Adobe Acrobat format click here.

Daily and Sunday Telegraph readers have voted Jet2.com the UKs best low cost airline in its annual travel awards.

The leading friendly low fare operator secured second place in the 'Best Low-Cost Airline' category of the Telegraph Travel Awards 2008, just behind German carrier Air Berlin.

The announcement secures Jet2.com's position as the UK's leading low fare airline amongst UK consumers, after also being named the UK's Best Short Haul Airline by readers of the Guardian and Observer in October.

For both awards, Jet2.com fought off stiff competition from a raft of its low fare competitors who failed to make an impact on either poll, both voted for by the public. The Telegraph Travel Awards polled over 25,000 people - in Britain's biggest travel survey - to reveal their spending habits, favourite destinations and top operators.

Philip Meeson, Boss of Jet2.com was interviewed exclusively by the Blackpool Gazette on his thoughts on the FREE car parking and Jet2.coms commitment to Blackpool Airport.

Here is a peek at the interview - the full article can be viewed on the Blackpool Gazette website here

Jet2.com is now on sale with flights to the unique and historic destination of Albert, in the Picardie region of France!

Albert is most famous as the site of the Battle of the Somme in World War I and is a must for those interested in visiting the historic battlefields - whether it be a personal trip or an educational excursion!

Since World War 1 and World War 2 are taught as part of the national curriculum, the battlefield break is becoming increasingly popular with schools taking pupils to see the battle sites, trenches and war graves first hand.

With Remembrance Day marking the 90th anniversary of the armistice recently and a number of websites and TV programmes tracing family trees, it isn't any wonder that interest in the Battlefield Tours are in popular demand!

Not only is Albert a great base from which to explore the Somme area and its historical importance, but it is a vibrant French town in it's own right oozing with culture and set amongst stunning scenery in the beautiful region of Picardie. Albert is in easy access to Picardie's historic capital - Amiens and to the north east, the city of Lille - voted European Capital of Culture in 2004.

For all schools and groups out there, if you have more than 10 people travelling, why not use our dedicated group booking service to book your flights to Albert? Benefits include a personalised non obligation quote, a low deposit, and name confirmation just 2 weeks before date of departure! Visit www.jet2.com/groups today!

Jet2.com will be the first airline to offer scheduled services into Albert between April and June 2009 and flights start from £60.99 one way including taxes from Leeds Bradford airport.

Visit the website now for details on schedules and of course, check out the low fare finder to search the best fares for you flights!

Travellers will now have the choice of over 100 hotels across Europe's finest cities!

Dining on the banks of the River Seine or visiting The Coliseum, are just two experiences for travellers to enjoy following the launch of Jet2holidays.com's first ever 'City Breaks' packages, which include both flights and accommodation.

The North's leading tour operator is offering three-night package breaks from a bargain £169* per person having responded to customer demand for ATOL-protected trips to some of Europe's finest city locations.

With a choice of destinations including, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Paris, Prague, Palma, Nice, Venice and Rome from five UK airports, travellers have a selection of over 100 two-star to five-star hotels to choose from.

One of the most appealing offers is a three-night trip to Paris from Leeds Bradford for a bargain £204** per person, which departs in January 2009 and includes two-star accommodation in the French capital's Montparnasse area.

Jodie Harris, Marketing Manager at Jet2holidays.com, said: "This is the first time we have offered bespoke city breaks for our customers and have selected a range of destinations, which should be popular for travellers wanting a long weekend away.

"Our decision was partly made due to a flood of requests via our call centre for ATOL-protected breaks. As ever, we believe it is crucial to gather ongoing feedback and are glad to be providing yet more holiday options for our loyal customers."

For bookings visit www.jet2holidays.com or call 0800 408 5599.

*Price per person, based on two people sharing on a self catering basis to Palma, Majorca. Flights depart Monday 30th March, 2009 from Leeds Bradford International Airport.

**Price per person, based on two people sharing on a bed & breakfast basis to Hotel Villa du Maine, Paris. Flights depart Sunday 25th January, 2009 from Leeds Bradford International Airport.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, was recently interviewed by the Yorkshire Post and gave an insightful view into his life and the drive behind Jet2.com.

Here is a peek of the article from the Yorkshire Post, the full article can be found on the Yorkshire Post website - click here!

Today Jet2holidays.com announced a new sun destination from Manchester - the Greek Island of Crete!

Jet2holidays.com has also increased the number of holidays available to popular Tenerife and new destination Dalaman (Turkey) to meet demand for such holiday destinations in the region*.

In addition, Jet2holidays.com will be extending newly launched Sharm el Sheikh until the end of the summer season 09, giving fans of this destination more chance to visit this holiday haven.

As said by Jet2holidays.com boss Philip Meeson, Jet2holidays.com is increasing capacity as other competitors cut back and filling gaps where demand is clear.

Recently Jet2holidays.com increased baggage allowance by 30% for its passengers, proving that Jet2holidays.com really is the tour operator that offers more!

Why not visit Jet2holidays.com today and see what great deals you can get?

Manchester to Crete (Heraklion)

Holidays start from £244**{pp for 7 nights self catering in a 3* self catering apartment. Visit www.jet2holidays.com for more amazing deals.
hester to Tenerife - Additional Saturday service added, Manchester / Dalaman, Turkey - Additional Friday service added.

** Prices correct at time of print.

Jet2.com - Yorkshire's number one leisure airline, set off on its first transatlantic flight from Leeds Bradford Airport this morning!

After launching flights to the Big Apple earlier this year, today was the day booked passengers have been waiting for as they stepped onboard Jet2.com's newly modified aircraft, destination New York.

Passengers had a designated check-in area decorated with stars and stripes, balloons, bunting and greeted by a 7ft tall Statue of Liberty! Jet2.com staff also joined in the celebration of the first New York flight sporting red white and blue hats and tiaras to get the passengers in the mood for their American adventure!

Although you've missed the first flight, the last remaining flights to New York are still up for grabs from just £259.99 return including taxes and package deals from £529 per person. But hurry - flights and package deals are only available through November and December, so visit our low fare finder today to take your bite of the Big Apple before it too late!

Dart Group - the parent company to airline Jet2.com and Fowler Welch Coolchain were rewarded for their IT Infrastructure Project at the Channel Network Awards last week held at the Hilton Hotel, London. Dart Group beat off strong competition from Coca Cola and Selfridges to be named the Enterprise IT Solution of the Year

The award noted the redevelopment of the Jet2.com ecommerce website and the installation of a 'green' infrastructure that could deliver round the clock resilient computing for employees and customers.

The solution focused on providing ongoing low operating expenditure and these cost-savings ensure that Jet2.com passengers will continue to benefit from the lowest possible fares with the airline.

Jet2.com is delighted that the Yorkshire Tourist Board in partnership with Jet2.com won the Northern Marketing Award for the Most Effective use of International Marketing last Thursday. The award was given for a campaign by Jet2.com and Yorkshire Tourist Board to promote Yorkshire in Spain

'The 7 Deadly Sins of Yorkshire' campaign was commended for being creative and innovative in the way it used the sins to take a light-hearted look at the pleasures of Yorkshire. It used each sin to show off Yorkshire's famous welcome, state of the art attractions, fantastic landscapes, dramatic coastline and countryside. As Joanna Royle, Marketing Director for YTB said: "Yorkshire has an amazing array of cutting edge places to visit and stay and through campaigns like this together with partners such as Jet2.com and internationally renowned ambassadors for our region such as the Kaiser Chiefs, Arctic Monkeys and Damien Hirst, we are reaching a global platform."

Jet2.com and the Yorkshire Tourist Board have worked together on several successful campaigns to increase inbound tourism from key markets. Why not discover some of the 7 sins of Yorkshire for yourself on a Jet2.com flight to Leeds, in the heart of Yorkshire. To see the second stage of the Spanish campaign, visit www.dispuestoapecar.es

Jet2.com performs well at the Guardian & Observer Travel Awards 2008

Jet2.com, the North's number one leisure airline, have for the 3rd year running performed well at the prestigious Guardian and Observer Travel Awards by being named the Best UK Short Haul Airline and second best Short Haul Airline in Europe.

The awards - now in their 22nd year - is one of the most respected surveys in the travel industry and is especially important as it is the consumer who casts the deciding vote with more than 17,000 readers returning questionnaires to decide the winners this year.

Jet2.com's performance mirrors the dedication of the airline to providing our customers with what they want including low fares, great customer service and destinations our customer's really want to fly to!

Jet2.com has been flying high for 30 years as a long established British airline specialising in the operation of low cost leisure services, and contract passenger and freight charters.

The Company is a subsidiary of Dart Group PLC, an AIM listed aviation services and distribution group. It has been operating commercial aircraft since 1978, originally as a cargo specialist under the name Channel Express (Air Services) Ltd, but since 2001 has operated both contract freight and passenger services, and since 2003 scheduled leisure passenger services.

Dart Group's other subsidiary is Fowler Welch-Coolchain which provides an integrated supply chain to supermarkets and their suppliers by providing chilled and ambient distribution together with warehousing and pick-to-order services.

The Group's businesses were purchased by Philip Meeson's private company in 1983, at which time they specialised in the transport by air of boxes of flowers from the Channel Islands to the UK, and their onward distribution by road to British wholesale markets.� The company's freighter aircraft also delivered large volumes of general freight to the Channel Islands.

Dart Group has developed both its airline operation and its road distribution businesses over the intervening years, both by organic growth and acquisition.� The original distribution business was expanded by the purchase of Fowler Welch in 1994 and Coolchain Ltd in 1999.� Renamed Fowler Welch Coolchain, the group's distribution business is now one of the UK's largest chilled distribution operations with a turnover in excess of £120 million per annum.

Channel Express (Air Services) Ltd built its business operating freighter aircraft for the European overnight express parcel industry, primarily United Parcel Service, Federal Express and TNT. It has also developed since 1982 a long term relationship with Britain's Royal Mail. In 2003 the company formed a joint venture with Titan Airways named Postal Air Network Ltd (PAN). PAN was awarded a seven year contract to operate 16 "Quick Change" Jet aircraft for the Royal Mail. To service this operation, the company owns seven Boeing 737-300 "Quick Change" aircraft and one Boeing 737-300 Freighter. These aircraft operate for Royal Mail at night and Jet2.com passenger services during the day.

Channel Express (Air Services) was renamed Jet2.com and established passenger services on 12 February 2003 at Leeds Bradford International Airport, which is now the Airline's and Dart Group's headquarters. Other UK operating hubs are Manchester Airport, Belfast International Airport, Blackpool International Airport, Edinburgh Airport and Newcastle Airport from which services are operated to over 40 European Leisure destinations.

Jet2.com concentrates its services from airports in the North of England and operates to over 40 European destinations.

In addition to a number of new routes announcements across our bases, Jet2.com has today gone on sale with flights to the Cornish Resort of Newquay for Summer '09 from Leeds Bradford and Belfast.

So for Summer '09 why not enjoy a bit of British and go for the classic Seaside holiday in the UK's surfing capital!

Also going on sale for Summer '09 today from Belfast is Dubrovnik; this stunning Croatian destination offers beautiful scenery, idyllic beaches and delicious cuisine in a hot climate. Dubrovnik is fast becoming a trendy hotspot for clubbers to rival Ibiza so is a perfect Sun holiday destination for groups of friends.

Flights from Belfast to Dubrovnik with Jet2.com start 2nd May '09 from £56.99 and Newquay flights start 24th May '09 from just £24.99 (both one way inc. taxes).

Today Jet2.com goes on sale with an exciting new route - popular British coastal resort Newquay!

Newquay in Cornwall offers something for all, from surfers to families to stag and hen dos including stunning coastline, great beaches, and excellent bars, restaurants and nightclubs. And now you can get there from Leeds Bradford airport in just 70 minutes from only £24.99 one way inc. taxes!

Flights to Newquay go twice a week and start on the 24th May 2009 so get online now at www.Jet2.com and book your British summer get-away today!

Jet2.com continues to spread its wings across our UK bases serving the popular Greek destination of Rhodes from both Leeds Bradford & Manchester for summer 2009.

Following a fantastic season out of Newcastle, we are excited to be adding Rhodes to the extensive list destinations served out of Leeds and Manchester which include Sardinia, Cyprus & Sharm el Sheikh.

Rhodes is an idyllic destination with a warm climate, fantastic beaches and exceptional traditional Greek cuisine. To find out more, click on our destination guides and see why Rhodes really is the holiday destination for you!

Flights start from £68.99 one way inc. taxes so why not use our low fare finder to find the best flight deal for your summer 09 holiday? Check out our accommodation and car deals to get the best deals all round!� Book now!

Jet2holidays.com has some great deals on flight and accommodation packages starting from just £264 per person for 7 nights. So to book in one go, log onto www.jet2holidays.com

Jet2.com announce yet another new route for Summer 09!

Following on from last week's announcement that Jet2.com had added Ibiza, Menorca and Venice to its ever expanding route list from Edinburgh they are now flying to delightful Düsseldorf for Summer 09!

The exciting German city of Düsseldorf offers everything from fantastic shopping, architecture, museums, theatres, not to mention plenty of bars and restaurants lining the beautiful River Rhine. Düsseldorf also has fantastic connections to the important business cities of Frankfurt, Dortmund and Cologne.

Jet2.com start flying to Düsseldorf on the 29th March 2009 and with fares starting from just £24.99 one way inc. taxes make sure you take advantage by booking online at www.Jet2.com today!

Following on from the fantastic edition of Sardinia from Edinburgh in August, Jet2.com are pleased to announce 3 more exciting destinations flying out of its Scottish base for Summer '09.

Passengers from Edinburgh can now party till dawn in the buzzing Balearic island of Ibiza, soak up the romantic atmosphere in the beautiful Italian city of Venice or simply bask in the sun on the golden sandy beaches of Idyllic Menorca!

Jet2.com start flying to these 3 new fabulous holiday destinations from the 21st May '09 and with fares from as low as £35.99 one way inc. taxes, hurry up and book your flights online at Jet2.com today!

The latest punctuality statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) placed Jet2.com's base, Leeds Bradford International Airport with the shortest average delay and the second best on-time performance of 75 airport's in a worldwide survey in the second quarter of 2008.

The CAA report confirms that Leeds Bradford International Airport had the shortest average delay with only 7.3 minutes.� An on-time performance of 85.5% which exceeded all major UK, European and International gateways.

Jet2.com is the largest airline flying from Leeds Bradford Airport operating 39 routes to destinations all across Europe.� If you would like to snap up a bargain to one of the many destination from Leeds Bradford Airport why not visit our Low Fare Finder and book a flight today!

Jet2.com today confirmed that it has already repatriated over 2000 passengers stranded overseas following the collapse of XL Leisure Group the airline has flown 11 special emergency flights into Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle in the last three days.

Jet2.com is one of several British airlines assisting the Civil Aviation Authority in what the CAA has described as its 'biggest repatriation exercise' to date.

On Saturday, two of Jet2.com's Boeing 757s were involved in flights from Dalaman in Turkey to Yorkshire, and Heraklion in Crete to Manchester; meanwhile it operated two Boeing 737s from Kavala on the northern Greek mainland to Newcastle, and Rhodes to Leeds Bradford.

Sunday saw two more flights on its Boeing aircraft, from Kefalonia, also in Greece, to Leeds Bradford and a flight from Larnaca, Cyprus to Manchester.

Monday was Jet2.com's busiest day so far with five repatriation flights in total:

Lanzarote to Manchester
Lanzarote to Newcastle
Lanzarote to Leeds Bradford
Corfu to Manchester
Kalamata in Southern Greece to Leeds Bradford

Jet2.com boss Philip Meeson, said: "We're doing all we can to help with passengers stranded overseas - it's a terrible mess but the airline industry is pulling together as one to help out.

We've laid on 11 flights so far, and have brought home more than 2,000 stranded holidaymakers to the North of England and we will be flying more home in the coming weeks."

Ten new Volvo FH-480 artics, which have recently joined the fleet of leading distribution company Fowler Welch Coolchain, met their operating cost targets inside 3 weeks. "Much faster than expected," reports National Operations Director Lee Juniper.

The 10 trucks are the first FH's to be operated by Fowler Welch for 14 years and were supplied by Volvo Dealer Crossroads Truck and Bus. All are on Volvo Contract Hire and are being maintained by independent Volvo Dealer A. Culpin and Son Ltd, who are located close to Fowler Welch's national consolidation centre at Spalding.

According to Juniper, the FH's represent a 'toe in the water' as the company constantly challenges its transport costs. Adopting a project team approach to choosing vehicle and other suppliers, he says, is important to the company's search for "what's best for Fowler Welch - whether it's trucks, trailers or tyres."

Fowler Welch is very satisfied so far with the support received from Culpin and Crossroads and driver acceptance of the Globetrotter cabbed trucks is good. "Crossroads have delivered everything they promised without exception and Culpin have also done a remarkable job," Juniper adds.

The trucks are double-shifted on a 24 hours per day, 7 days a week basis. They are regularly fully-freighted to 44 tonnes for both outward and return journeys. All are utilised specifically on heavy work, says Lee. This includes hauling fridge and ambient trailers as well as sea-containers.

As a result of their exceeding the customer's expectations in terms of operating costs and the standard of Dealer support received so far, 30 more FH's are now on order for Fowler Welch from Crossroads Truck and Bus for delivery around Christmas time.

Philip Meeson, Chief Executive of Jet2.com, said: "We have had another great summer, our aircraft have been full and we have made record profits, in fact we are expecting our parent company's half-year profits to be in excess of £30 million."

"We have been able to hedge our fuel, plan ahead and ensure we offer Jet2.com's low fares to our customers' favourite European leisure destinations from our six regional UK bases. And we have recorded our best ever load factors - in excess of 90 per cent."

"Our ATOL-protected package holiday business, Jet2holidays.com, has also had another bumper year."

"The airlines and tour operators that have had problems have been those with a bias towards trans-Atlantic and long haul flights, as was the case with Zoom, Silverjet and XL, each of which operated frequent scheduled services to several destinations in North America, and this is an entirely different market to ours."

Jet2.com's parent company issued a statement, it said:

Dart Group PLC, the aviation and distribution group, reports on the first five months of trading of its principal operating subsidiaries Jet2.com, the northern based airline, and Fowler Welch-Coolchain one of the UK's largest chilled distribution companies.

The Group's underlying profit before taxation (before specific IAS 39 fair value movements) for the first half of the year is expected to be in excess of £30 million, with full year results in advance of current market expectations.

The Group's aviation business is set for a record summer. By focusing on its core European leisure routes, our scheduled airline, Jet2.com, is delivering improved yields coupled with load factors on these routes in excess of 90% in the peak months. Trading performance has been supported by increased charter volumes, strong cost control, and a conservative approach to fuel hedging. Our ATOL-protected holidays company, Jet2holidays.com, continues to grow strongly by meeting our customers' demand for a package holiday from their local airport.

Our distribution business, Fowler Welch-Coolchain, which operates over 350 vehicles providing a high quality distribution service of staple consumer goods, including chilled fresh and prepared foods, for a range of UK leading supermarkets, retailers and their suppliers, continues to perform well and in line with the Company's expectations. This business remains unaffected by fuel price movements, which are passed on to our customers.

Joining Jet2.com's ever increasing list of great summer destinations, seven more amazing routes are now on sale for Summer 09 from Leeds Bradford. Passengers can take advantage of flights to:

Avignon
Geneva
Krakow
La Rochelle
Paris
Prague
Toulouse

We have even added more flights for Budapest and Rome from Manchester and all at fantastically low fares!

Visit our Low Fare Finder today to find great deals for Summer 09.

Flights have gone on sale today for a fantastic new route from Leeds Bradford airport to Dubrovnik, Croatia!

On sale for Summer 09, flights to this up and coming holiday destination start from just £56.99 one way including taxes.

Dubrovnik is just the latest new Jet2.com destination to be announced and there's more to come so watch this space!

Visit our Low Fare Finder today for your low fares to Croatian sun.

Jet2.com add a further 4 NEW routes to the summer '09 network!

Leeds - Larnaca fm £78.99*
Leeds - Rhodes fm £90.99*
Newcastle - Ibiza fm £46.99*
Manchester - Sardinia (Olbia) fm £49.99*

*One way including taxes.

Larnaca & Rhodes from Leeds� Bradford:

Larnaca in Cyprus, is the latest route to be launched from Leeds Bradford complimenting the Greek destination of Rhodes announced only days ago.

Jet2.com already flies into Paphos in Cyprus, but now we're offering the port city of Larnaca too!� A mix of the modern and the historic, this city has a great deal to see and do not to mention beaches aplenty!�

Rhodes is one of the largest of the Greek Islands rich with history, bursting with glorious beaches and pretty villages, fantastic weather and a cosmopolitan nightlife.

Ibiza from Newcastle:

Earlier this year we launched Corfu and Rhodes from Newcastle; now Jet2.com are giving the people of the North the opportunity to chant 'We're going to Ibiza' all the way to the airport!

Ibiza is ideal for partygoers, sun worshipers and is a family holiday favourite; the popular island of Ibiza has something for everyone!

Sardinia from Manchester:

First it was Sharm el Sheikh and now Jet2.com brings the stunning Italian island of Sardinia within easy reach of Manchester!

Jet2.com will fly into the city of Olbia (translated as 'happy town') situated on the island's North East coast: This area is famous for its beautiful stretch of coast line and Olbia itself boasts a good selection of bars, restaurants and shops.

If you want to read up on these new destinations then check out destination pages on the website and you'll know why we've started flying there! � Why not search for the best deals with our Low Fare Finder, and book your summer 2009 break today! If you simply can't wait that long Jet2.com offer a host destinations to suit all tastes so there's bound to be a destination which shouts VISIT ME! Book now!

Flights go on sale today from Leeds Bradford to the fantastic and historic Greek Island of Rhodes!

With around 300 days of sunshine per year, Rhodes is an amazing destination for a sun-filled holiday with masses of history, shopping and exploring to be had for those not content to sit on one of Rhodes' glorious sandy beaches.

Flying once a week from 27th May 2009, visit our Low Fare Finder for fantastic fares to Rhodes.

Also on sale today from Leeds Bradford for summer 09*:

Amsterdam from £23.99
Düsseldorf from £24.99
Rome from £46.99
Jersey from £34.99
Venice from £45.99

*Fares are one way including taxes.

And if you're based in the North East you can head to the Greek Islands from your local airport with flights now on sale to both Corfu and Rhodes from Newcastle!

Following on from the success of the Leeds - Sardinia (Olbia) route launched for Summer 08, flights are now on sale to Sardinia flying from Edinburgh for Summer 09!

Flying once a week on a Saturday, fares to this stunning Italian island start from just £55.99 one way including taxes.

Flights commence on 16th May 2009 so visit our low fare finder today for your low fares to your amazing island getaway.

Six more fantastic routes from Manchester have gone on sale this week for summer 2009.

The popular destinations of:

Budapest
Malaga
Murcia
Nice
Pisa
Rome

are now available to book from Manchester from just £45.99 one way including taxes!

These destinations join the ever increasing choice of destinations already on sale for Summer '09, so visit our Low Fare Finder for your low fares for a summer break!

Jet2.com has launched its shopping basket facility which allows customers to buy multiple flights and destinations at the same time whilst adding additional services such as Jet2plus and double legroom seats to their booking - all in one single payment!

This is great news for our regular customers, who can now book their flights all in one go without repeating the payment process - plus having booked in advanced means the job's done and dusted!

In addition to the shopping basket facility, customers can now manage travel arrangements and save personal details with 'My Jet2.com'. Why not set up your profile today?

It's a whole new shopping experience when booking with Jet2.com!

Why not make your booking now! Fly to sun, city and ski destinations from Leeds, Manchester, Blackpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Belfast from just £13.99 one way including taxes - in fact, why not get your diary out and book your Christmas, Valentines and Easter break too!

Book Now!

"As For Ryanair and Easyjet... If You Want Great Customer Service, Then Look Elsewhere" says Which? Editor

The Which? customer satisfaction survey of more than 30,000 consumer members has praised low cost airline Jet2.com far ahead of its rivals including Easyjet and Ryanair.

The four-page article, published in July's issue of Which? - the leading independent consumer champion in the UK - reported that in the battle of the best-known 'no-frills airlines', Jet2.com beat its rivals including Easyjet and Ryanair to a pulp and came out top of the low cost airlines in the British Isles.

The publication said: "The performance of no-frills airlines on popular short-haul routes, such as to Spain, Portugal and Italy, was more varied - Jet2.com was rated the highest."

Jet2.com boss Philip Meeson said "The readers of Which? have stunned everyone at Jet2.com.� We're over the moon at being ranked ahead of the likes of British Airways and KLM, who can't get anywhere near to the low fares we offer, and are of course delighted to be ahead of every other low cost airline in the British Isles."

"It's particularly pleasing that we have been singled out for the high standard of service on our flights to Italy, Portugal and Spain. Millions of people travel from the UK to these countries on holiday every year and I'd say to anyone who hasn't flown with Jet2.com that, with an endorsement like this and our extremely low fares, why not give us a try-

Neil Fowler, Editor of Which? magazine, said: "The glamour of air travel may have gone, but there are still some classy carriers out there that will make getting to your destination an enjoyable part of your holiday."

"You might think that you get what you pay for, but the best European no-frills airlines prove that you can offer a stripped down service at a good price and keep your customers happy - as for Ryanair and Easyjet... if you want great customer service then look elsewhere."

If it's a city break you're after this Winter then you'll be pleased to hear that today Jet2.com has gone on sale with Amsterdam, Belfast, Düsseldorf and Prague from Leeds Bradford for Winter 07/08.

With fares starting from just £13.99 one way inc. taxes you will have more money to spend during your trip on sightseeing opportunities, fantastic shops, eating out and nightlife.

So get planning your Winter getaway now and make sure you don't miss out on Jet2.com's low cost flights starting from just £13.99 one way inc. taxes using our Low Fare Finder.

Jet2.com and Jet2Holidays.com launched their new route from Leeds Bradford and Manchester to Sharm El Sheikh today with the help of Hillary Clinton, the Camel!

Hillary attended the launch at the Yorkshire International Business Convention and caused quite a stir along with representatives from Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.

Flights to Sharm El Sheikh from Leeds Bradford start 13th February 2009, and from Manchester starting 26th October 2008. Fares start from just £127.99 one way including taxes and holidays from just £374 per person!

See our low fare finder for your cheap flights to Sharm El Sheikh or visit www.jet2holidays.com for great package deals!

Philip Meeson, boss of low cost airline Jet2.com, 2006 and 2007 European Short-Haul Airline of the Year, has lashed out at Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary, following comments on the ITV lunchtime news today.�

O'Leary had said that other low cost airlines like Jet2.com could go bust this winter if oil stays at $130 a barrel.

Mr Meeson said: "It won't be Jet2.com.� I'm sorry Mr O'Leary, unlike you, Jet2.com has bought all its fuel for this summer, this coming winter and next summer at attractive rates."

"And because people enjoy flying with Jet2.com, we are having a great year yet again."�

"Our passengers can rely upon us for many, many years to come."

Yorkshire and England cricketing legend, Geoffrey Boycott gave his seal of approval to Jet2.com's new route to Jersey by travelling on one of the first flights from Leeds Bradford.

Now based in Jersey, Geoffrey often travels back to Yorkshire to maintain his involvement with the Yorkshire Cricket Club and to visit family and friends. Geoffrey commented "It is great that there is this new link between Yorkshire and Jersey. Jersey is now more accessible to people in Yorkshire who can visit the island and experience what a beautiful and diverse place it really is".

If you would like to experience the delights that Jersey has to offer then you've got no excuse not to, with flights starting at £29.99 one way including taxes, flying three times weekly from Leeds Bradford it's a bargain!

Visit our Low Fare Finder for your cheap flights to Jersey.

Saturday 3rd May saw Jet2.com become the first ever UK commercial carrier to operate into the newly upgraded airport in Albert in the Somme region of France.

Flying a charter flight on behalf of the local Regional Council of the Somme, the Boeing 737-300 took invited guests to Albert for the day to showcase the airport and its facilities as well as promoting itself as an entry airport for the region.

The flight was a great success and both the passengers and crew were impressed with the facilities offered. The Regional Council of the Somme were very pleased with Jet2.com's efforts and hope that it will lead to more regular charters operating on behalf of UK tour operators promoting battlefield tours within the area.

If you want to explore France for yourself then head to Avignon, Chambery, La Rochelle, Nice and Toulouse from just £4.99 one way including taxes. See our Low Fare FINDER for your cheap flights to France.

Jet2.com & Jet2holidays.com Launch First Ever Service to NYC

It is the news that the region has been waiting for - Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.com confirmed at a press conference this morning that they will commence the first ever transatlantic flights to New York, from Leeds Bradford airport. However, travellers will need to book early as this fantastic service is bound to sell out quickly.

Jet2holidays.com will offer four-day Christmas shopping breaks direct from Leeds Bradford to Newark airport from just £699pp, including three nights hotel accommodation and all taxes and charges.

Packages will be available through Jet2holidays.com from noon today (08 May) and travellers can choose from a number of three to five-star hotel options for trips that will depart during November and December this year.

Richard Bodin, Managing Director at Jet2holidays.com, said: "This is an important announcement for us. We knew this destination was one that our customers have been calling for and we are proud and thrilled to be able to be the first holiday company in the region to offer this great deal to such an amazing city. This is the first in a series of exciting, specialist holidays that will allow people to experience a whole new range of activities and destinations.

"New York is one of those cities that everyone must see at least once in a lifetime. It has so many iconic images and sightseeing opportunities, culture that is second-to-none, the world's top stores and boutiques, and a fantastic array of restaurants, bars and clubs."

Jet2.com will also have New York on sale today offering return seats to the big apple from only £579.98 including taxes.

Richard Bodin added: "We are launching with Christmas shopping breaks as our research suggested this was the one thing most people tend to recommend to friends as a must-do first experience, and something they tend to repeat. And of course with the current strength of the pound against the dollar there's never been a better time to enjoy great value for money and have fun spending in this great city.

"By offering a fully packaged experience from a trusted brand, at a local airport that includes accommodation, we are providing the perfect New York shopping experience. Additionally, travellers will be able to benefit from enhanced legroom through our upgrade service, Jet2PlusUSA.

"We are launching, initially, with four departures - however, if these are successful and in high enough demand we will add more to the programme."

Since the low cost airline first launched in Leeds five years ago, the company has been deluged with requests to start this service, and following the Open Skies Treaty, which came into effect in March, rumours had been circulating that the region would be linked with a direct service to New York City in 2008. Today, the launch was confirmed.

Flight departure dates from Leeds Bradford airport (all flights depart LBA 09.00, arriving midday; return flights depart Newark 21.00, arriving the following day at 08.00):

Thursday 6th November, 2008
Thursday 13th November, 2008
Thursday 4th December, 2008
Thursday 11th December, 2008

Go to www.jet2holidays.com or call 0871 386 0000 or www.Jet2.com for seat only.

The first flight to Hamburg from Jet2.com hit the skies on the 1st May 2008 opening up links to this fantastic city for all passengers flying from Leeds Bradford Airport.

Hamburg is an ideal destination for all - whether you are looking for a short romantic break, a fun weekend away taking in the local breweries or a business trip.� The city has something for everyone.

To make your journey to Hamburg even more effortless once you arrive at the airport you can take advantage of the FREE bus service to and from Hamburg City Centre - all you have to do is present your Jet2.com boarding pass or booking confirmation to the bus driver - it's easy.

Flights to Hamburg start from as little as £9.99 one way inc. taxes so what are you waiting for - don't delay, book today!

Low cost airline Jet2.com is kicking off the month of May with the first of 8 exciting new Summer routes flying out from its base at Leeds Bradford International Airport starting with the German city of Hamburg.

Three times World Champion Town Crier Michael Wood will be performing a special proclamation to give a very British welcome to passengers at Hamburg onto Jet2.com's flights with the help of Yorkshire Tea and biscuits.

Speaking about the route expansion Jet2.com boss, Philip Meeson commented: "May really is a momentous month for Jet2.com and Leeds Bradford International Airport, with the launch of eight new fantastic destinations and our biggest ever route expansion to date".

Jet2.com will now be flying to the exciting Sun and City destinations of Hamburg, Madrid, Sardinia, Cyprus, Crete, Avignon, Jersey and La Rochelle with fares starting from just £9.99 one way inc taxes.

Jet2.com is not only expanding in Leeds but has also 2 new Summer routes from Newcastle that have just been announced. Flights to the beautiful Greek islands of Rhodes and Corfu will commence flying the 30th June from £69.99 one way inc. taxes. Visit www.Jet2.com for more details.

As if Jet2.com didn't already deliver the best value on flights to Europe, we've only gone and teamed up with Hertz to offer Jet2.com customers the best value on car rental!

Look out for the very best in car deals when travelling with Jet2.com, in particular the fabulous £1 per day car rental offer - running now until 21st April. But the great offers don't stop there!

All Jet2.com customers are eligible to join the Hertz #1 Club programme through the website - which offers customers faster reservations and rentals, discounted rates and great special offers.

Jet2.com customers can also collect 2 Nectar points for every £1 spent on car hire with Hertz, and collect additional bonus points during special promotions. Hertz is the only car rental company that awards Nectar points, so don't forget to quote your Nectar card when you make your booking!

For great value flights visit Jet2.com, or for great value car hire, follow the link from our website or visit www.jet2.com/car

Jet2.com has been shortlisted for the prestigious award of Best Passenger Airline by The Baltic Air Charter Association (BACA).

BACA is made up of all major charter aircraft operators, brokers and associated companies in the UK who will vote and the winner of the award will be announced at the BACA Excellence Awards Lunch 2008 which is to be held in London on 24th April 2008.

Jet2.com has been operating a private charter service for 6 years since the arrival of our dedicated charter aircraft which has, along with the rest of the fleet, flown an impressive list of clientele.

Don't forget though we're not just great at charter flights with 42 destinations served from 5 UK bases from just £4.99 one way including taxes on our fantastic scheduled service. Click here for our latest offers!

Leading FMCG carrier, Fowler Welch have fitted their latest batch of Scania and DAF Trucks with TISS market-leading "Impregnable" anti-siphon. The recent fitting means that TISS have now supplied in excess of 400 systems to Fowler-Welch vehicles since 2005.

Fleet Engineer, Andy Marchant, has been delighted with the 'Impregnable': "having fitted the TISS anti-siphons for 3 years, we are very happy with the anti-siphon's performance and we are currently specifying it on all new truck acquisitions."

Ryan Wholey, TISS Managing Director, commented: "I am very pleased to hear about Fowler Welch's continued satisfaction. The fact that customers keep returning to us for new business is a sure sign that the anti-siphons are working well."

Fowler Welch is not alone in placing repeat orders. Other companies, including DHL-Exel, Sainsburys, Hanbury Davies and Co-Op Retail Logistics continue to specify TISS anti-siphons on all their new Trucks. Some of these Hauliers have been fitting TISS systems for more than 5 years.

Mr Marchant continued: "The 'Impregnable' also reduces wasted fuel by stopping spillage and wasted fuel from drivers over-filling. This is important with fuel prices at an all time high as well as contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. No other anti-siphon offers all these benefits".

TISS will be showcasing their award winning anti-siphons in addition to their other security systems at this year's CV Show on Stand 6-121.

Fowler Welch has added a further 20 Montracon reefers to its FMCG operation that consolidates and distributes both temperature-controlled and ambient products to retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers throughout the UK.

The 20 trailers have entered service alongside 80 Montracon curtain-siders supplied to the company's ambient operation last year.

Jet2.com is pleased to announce that it is operating low cost flights twice a day from Leeds Bradford to the fantastic city of Paris Monday to Friday from the 30th March.

Visit the French capital for stylish architecture and exciting sightseeing opportunities as well as mouth-watering cuisine and chic designer shopping. Perfect for a romantic getaway, business trip or a fun weekend away with friends, Jet2.com has flights to Paris from just £4.99 one way inc. taxes so make sure you book online today!

A national poll revealed that Yorkshire was considered to have the most welcoming and friendly people in the UK. Our passengers will have experienced the Yorkshire hospitality on board our flights and now it has been made official!

Yorkshire already has much to offer the overseas visitor - stunning countryside, rich culture, fantastic shopping and buzzing nightlife - now why not come meet us friendly folk for the warm welcome we're renowned for!

The Yorkshire Tourist board are so chuffed that they've even made up a face showing the friendliest features! Here at Jet2.com these friendly faces are everywhere of course!

So people of Yorkshire give yourselves a pat on the back and why not reward yourself with a low cost flight to one of our 36 City, Sun and Ski destinations from Leeds from just £9.99 inc. taxes! Have a look at our low fare finder today!

Jet2.com was once again named one of the best low cost airlines in Europe and narrowly missed a first place at the Telegraph Travel Awards 2007. Beating off tough competition from across Europe, Jet2.com was the runner-up in the "Best No Frills Airline" category, narrowly missing out on the top spot just behind Air Berlin.

This accolade voted for by the Telegraph readers shows Jet2.com's commitment to great service at a great price. The trophy will sit alongside the Guardian & Observer Travel Awards Short Haul Airline of the Year which Jet2.com won in November.

Jet2plus was launched last Friday in Belfast as Hannah Doubtfire and Lauren Godfrey travelled to Northern Ireland to meet lucky passengers heading off on their holidays to Tenerife.

Even though it was only 7 o'clock in the morning Jet2.com passengers checking in to their flight were treated to sweets and glasses of Bucks Fizz to really start their holiday off in style. With help from staff at Belfast International Airport, Jet2.com Cabin Crew and even a celebrity appearance by Big Brother Star Orlaith McAllister the launch really got off to a bang.

You too could take advantage of the fabulous Jet2plus service on flights to the Canaries, for only £25 per person you can get priority check-in, security fast track, VIP lounge access, in-flight meal and seats in the front of the cabin. Book online or at the airport and visit www.jet2plus.com for more information.

On the 14th November BBC Look North arranged a challenge pitting Jet2.com against the Eurostar. The race was from York Minster to the Eiffel Tower and had two BBC reporters go head-to-head, one by air and one by rail.

Even with having to do a 40 minute commute from York to Leeds Bradford Airport for the Jet2.com flight - the reporter using the Eurostar could step straight onto the train at York so stole a bit of a head start! - and a French Rail Transport Strike stopping the reporter from using the extremely convenient and cost effective regional railway at Charles de Gaulle Airport straight into the centre of Paris the Jet2.com flight still got our passenger to the Eiffel Tower 30 minutes ahead of the Eurostar and with the price of the Jet2.com air ticket over 50% cheaper than the rail fare, could afford to buy his losing colleague a slap up meal at a top Paris restaurant.

The reporter remarked on the extremely fast check-in time at Leeds Bradford, the super fast security and the comfy leather seats onboard the Jet2.com flight as well as the fantastic views!

Infact, without the hindrance of a French Transport strike you can cut at least 2 1/2 hours off your journey using a Jet2.com flight compared to the Eurostar from the Yorkshire region and with prices starting from as little as £9.99 including taxes there really is no comparison!

Jet2.com - awarded the Best European Short-Haul Airline for the second year on the trot!

Voted for by the readers of The Guardian and Observer newspapers, Jet2.com beat off strong competition from the likes of KLM and BMI, to proudly receive this award at the annual Guardian Travel Awards.

The award was presented to Jet2.com's managing director Ian Doubtfire by Mariella Frostup in Seville on Sunday.

Jet2.com strives to keep passengers happy providing low cost flights, a great choice of destinations and a quality service!

If it's winter sun you're after, we can make it happen with flights to the Canaries from £29.99. Fun city destinations start from £9.99 and Ski doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg - head to the slopes from just £19.99 one way including charges!

Don't delay, book today and fly with the Best European Short-Haul Airline at www.jet2.com

Leeds Bradford Airport has been named as the best performing airport for punctuality in a report by the Civil Aviation Authority between April and June last year.

In the study of ten major UK airports including Manchester, London City, Luton and Stansted, Leeds Bradford came out best!

Why not see for yourself just how well we can perform by taking advantage of some great deals on flights from Leeds Bradford. With flights starting at £14.99 one way including charges come and experience great service at fantastic prices with Jet2.com. Visit our low fare finder to find your low cost flights.

Belfast, Pisa, Mahon & Tenerife for Summer 08 On Sale Now

Jet2.com today announced the release of flights for Summer 08 to Belfast from Blackpool and Leeds along with flights to Pisa, Menorca & Tenerife from Newcastle International Airport. Customers can pick up flights to these fantastic destinations for a well deserved Summer break for as little as:

Belfast fm £14.99
Pisa fm £39.99
Menorca fm £43.99
Tenerife fm £58.99

Don't delay, book today!

Jet2.com today announced a fantastic new route for Summer 08 from Blackpool International Airport to Ibiza. Passengers in the Blackpool region can now take advantage of Jet2.com's amazing low fares to Ibiza from as little as £48.99 one way including charges.

Ibiza is a destination that has something for everyone ranging from fantastic nightlife to beautiful secluded beaches. Flights are available online today with travel from 3rd July so don't delay and book your perfect Balearic break today!!!

Now that the nights are getting darker and the days are getting colder Jet2.com has made an announcement to make you feel warm inside. The low cost airline has put more flights on sale for Summer 08 so if you fancy a bit of European culture then book your Jet2.com flights for your Summer holiday to Rome, Prague or Krakow now!

So make sure you escape the gloomy British weather next Summer for a break in sunny Europe where you can indulge in a spot of sightseeing, shopping and eating out - whatever takes your fancy!

You can find low cost flights from Leeds Bradford to Krakow from just £19.99, Rome from £29.99 and Prague from £19.99 one way including charges, online at Jet2.com now!

Wouldnt it be great if you could skip to the front of the queue with priority check-in, glide through security in the Fast Track lane, enjoy a refreshing beverage in the VIP lounge pre-flight then sit back and relax in front of cabin seating and be served at your seat with an in-flight meal of you choice?

Great news! From today passengers travelling to Tenerife, Gran Canaria & Lanzarote can experience all of the above!

Jet2.com Plus can be purchased both online and at the airport on day of travel for £25 per passenger outbound or £45 per passenger both ways.

Fancy being pampered? Book now at Jet2.com/Plus

Jet2.com has just been voted the world's third best low cost airline by readers of Condé Nast Traveller in their 10th annual Reader Awards.

Beating off fierce competition from the likes of Ryanair and American giant Southwest Airlines, Jet2.com was a firm favourite with readers, who gave the airline an overall satisfaction of 81.74 per cent. Over the past ten years, the survey has grown to be recognised as one of the most comprehensive guides to all aspects of the travel industry, with thousands of readers voting in over 20 separate categories.

News that will not surprise passengers who have already travelled with the airline was that Jet2.com scored highly for punctuality, with other low cost airlines unable to compete.

Today we go on sale with Avignon, Toulouse - NEW! and La Rochelle NEW! from Edinburgh for summer 08.

These fabulous cities are a real hit with the Scots and vice versa. The mutual admiration the Scots & French have for each other's culture and country will ensure these routes are a success so get booking now!

Avignon is an idyllic town with so much history, life and culture, you won't want to leave! Due to the success of this summer's service, the route's frequency has also been increased!

What's more Prague and Pisa have gone on sale from Edinburgh so whether it's getting a pisa the Italian life, cheap beer in Prague or enjoying the cuisine française there's something for everyone!

Check out our lowest fares on the low fare finder and book your summer getaway today.

Book now!

Today, Jet2.com was extremely proud to announce another 8 destinations to the network, as well as strengthening our support and commitment to the Yorkshire region as official partner and associate sponsor of Leeds Rugby!

This exciting news means Jet2.com now offers the following mix of destinations - all of which are down to us listening to our customers and providing you with the leisure/business destinations you have been asking for.

Hamburg -Germany from £19.99* starts 1 May, 4x weekly
Madrid - Mainland Spain from £24.99* starts 2 May, 4x weekly
Jersey - The Channel Islands from £28.99* starts 24 May, 3x weekly
La Rochelle - France from £28.99* starts 24 May, 1x per week
Avignon - France from £33.99* starts 22 May, 3x weekly
Sardinia (Olbia) from £33.99* starts 3 May, 1x per week
Crete (Heraklion) from £48.99* starts 20 May, 1x per week
Cyprus (Paphos) from £58.99* starts 4 May, 2x weekly

*Leading fare, one way including all taxes

In addition to our 8 fantastic destinations, we have also increased flight frequency on existing routes flying from Leeds Bradford Airport - further proof we're listening!

Geneva and Lanzarote will now fly year round
Paris will increase to a 2x daily service
Belfast International will increase to a 3x daily service
Toulouse will increase to a 2x weekly service

You can find information on Jet2.com, our new destinations, starting fares as well as many extras on offer at www.Jet2.com - BOOK NOW!

As part of our ongoing objective to give our customers a stress-less airport experience, we're pleased to announce that golfers, skiers and snowboarders can now pre-book their clubs, skis and snowboard online at Jet2.com.

This great new feature will not only save you time at check-in, avoiding the need to go to the sales desk after your initial check-in and then return for your boarding pass, we're also offering a whopping 25% off the airport charge when you pre-book online.

Yorkshire ski fans are already dusting down their ski jackets and delving for their goggles in anticipation, with our latest news of more flights than ever to the slopes from Leeds Bradford. THIS INCLUDES A HUGE INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF LOW COST FLIGHTS TO GENEVA, WITH THREE EXTRA FLIGHTS PER WEEK ADDED FOR THIS WINTER AND SUMMER 2008 FLIGHTS ON SALE THIS WEDNESDAY AT 10AM.

Our ski flights have snowballed and we now offer a staggering 10,000 seats a week to the slopes from Leeds Bradford this Winter, with over 5,000 of these being to the Alps, with access through the ski lovers' favourites of Geneva and Chambery.

What's more, we've upgraded our aircraft on our Geneva and Chambery services to the 238 seat Boeing 757, offering an EXTRA 90 LOW COST SEATS PER FLIGHT THROUGHOUT THE WINTER SEASON.

IF YOU WANT LOW COST SKI FROM LEEDS BRADFORD, Jet2.com IS THE ONLY PLACE TO BOOK - SO BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.

Fowler Welch Coolchain Limited have been awarded a Business in the Community (BITC) Big Tick in recognition of excellent practice in the delivery of a language support course developed by the University of Lincoln's Holbeach Campus for migrant LGV drivers working for Fowler Welch Coolchain.

As part of the programme developed by the Holbeach Campus, in partnership with Fowler Welch Coolchain, migrant drivers were initially assessed and then enrolled on a 19-week short course, designed to help their language skills, particularly focusing on reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Culminating in a City & Guild's qualification the course was developed by Rachel Bowser and Sue Burke from the Holbeach Campus, and was designed as a response to a shortage of English-speaking LGV drivers as Rachel Bowser, Subject Leader, explains:

"Fowler Welch Coolchain wanted to improve safety and enable better communication with their migrant drivers. Working in partnership with Fowler Welch Coolchain we developed a programme which improved workplace understanding across a range of often quite complex areas, including tachographs and fines.

"The improvement in their English language skills also helped the drivers outside of work in more social situations. They were given a range of tailored learning materials, including CDs designed to be listened to whilst on the road, and because it is a short course, disruption was kept to an absolute minimum to the business."

The BITC Awards for Excellence recognise the positive impact of responsible business in the marketplace, workplace, environment and community. Having been awarded The Big Tick in the First Group Skills for Life Award Fowler Welch Coolchain and representatives from the Holbeach Campus will attend the Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner to be held next month in London, where they will compete against their regional category peers.

"We are delighted with the course developed by the University of Lincoln's Holbeach Campus and thrilled to have been awarded The Big Tick. Rachel and Sue and the team at Holbeach devised a course which exactly met our requirements, and the benefit to Fowler Welch Coolchain and our drivers has been considerable. We hope to be able to continue our excellent working relationship with the Holbeach campus," comments Laurence Shea, job title, Fowler Welch Coolchain.

Jet2.com is not only the North's favourite airline, it has now been officially recognised as the No.1 online retailer in the North as well.

Web traffic figures released from the world's leading online competitive intelligence service, IMRG-Hitwise, confirmed that the low cost carrier had the busiest website for any Northern-based company in the UK and had also beaten off the likes of ASDA, Boots and TopShop.

The airline now flies to over 38 destinations across Europe and the Canary Islands and has claimed a top 40 place in the UK-wide report of the top 50 e-retailers .

IMRG-Hitwise, which publishes the figures annually, has ten years' experience of monitoring and analysing web traffic for the biggest e-retailers across the globe.

The accolade comes just weeks after Jet2.com was voted the most punctual low cost airline operating out of the UK, based on official CAA data.

Philip Meeson, boss of Jet2.com, said: "We're thrilled to see that the latest figures from IMRG-Hitwise has placed us squarely at the top of all Northern-based e-retailers where our low low fares belong and is where we intend to stay.

"Our website is extremely popular with customers, it is after all home to our lowest fares. These figures are proof of how we are not only retaining existing passengers but successfully winning scores of converts to our award-winning combination of low cost fares and unbeatable service. I would like to personally thank everyone that has made us The North's favourite website.

"With the recent news of being the most punctual low cost airline in the UK, we are delighted to yet again be setting the benchmark when it comes not only to Northern companies, but to the travel industry as a whole."

Dart Group PLC's distribution division has acquired the goodwill and selected assets of R. F. Fielding Cheshire Limited. The ambient business will trade as Fowler Welch Ambient and will operate from two main sites situated in Stockport and Birmingham and offers combined warehousing space in excess of 200,000 sq ft.

The company's enlarged fleet will now exceed a total of 450 tractor units and 800 trailers.

David Inglis, Managing Director of Fowler Welch-Coolchain, comments

"This strategic development will further strengthen our national network and clearly announces our arrival into the ambient consolidation sector. It is our intention to provide existing and future customers with the established high level of service currently provided in our temperature-controlled business."

Dart Group PLC, ("the Group") the aviation services and distribution group, reports on its first half trading.

Trading for the first half of the current financial year ending 31 March 2006 has been satisfactory and remains in line with current market expectations.

In the first half the Group will also be reporting an exceptional profit in the order of £3.7m arising from its recently announced disposal of Benair Freight International Limited and Benair Freight Pte.

The Group's low-cost airline, Jet2.com, announced yesterday that it was commencing operations from Blackpool International Airport, initially to three destinations - Belfast, Palma and Murcia.

Dart Group PLC, the aviation services and distribution group, announces today that it has sold 100% of its interest in Benair Freight International Limited and Benair Freight Pte ("Benair") to Gulf Agency Company ("GAC"), a global shipping, logistics and marine services group employing over 6,000 people in 200 offices worldwide.

The consideration, which is subject to a net asset adjustment, amounts to £5.1m based on the book value of the assets sold, estimated to be £1.2m. The proceeds will be used to pay down existing bank debt.

Commenting, Philip Meeson, Chairman and Chief Executive, said "The sale of Benair tidies up the Group structure and will free up management time and resources to concentrate on growing the Group's two core businesses of temperature-controlled distribution and aviation services. I believe that Benair has a bright future under its new owners, GAC".

Dart Group PLC is pleased to announce that all of the Annual General Meeting resolutions were approved.

Commenting on current trading, Philip Meeson, Chairman and Chief Executive, said: "Further to the comments I made in my Chairman's Statement on 16 June, 2005, I am pleased to confirm that the Group continues to trade in line with budget".

Dart Group PLC announces today that it has acquired two Boeing 757-200 aircraft from New Mexorado Gas LLC.

The aircraft will be used to further expand the operations of Channel Express (Air Services) Limited. The consideration will be met from existing cash and bank resources.

Dart Group PLC announces that it has acquired a further two Boeing 737-300 passenger aircraft formerly operated by Lufthansa. As a Class 2 transaction, the acquisition is not subject to prior approval from shareholders. The consideration will be met from existing cash and bank facilities. The aircraft will be used to further expand the Group's passenger business.

There follows a Half-Year Trading update from the Group's Chairman and Chief Executive, Philip Meeson.

"Further to my Statement at the Annual General Meeting on 5 August, I am pleased to confirm that the Group continues to trade ahead of budget.

I, therefore, expect pre-tax profits for the year ending 31 March 2005 to be materially ahead of current market expectations".

NINE DESTINATIONS, £21 FARES AND 200 NEW JOBS AS NORTH'S LOW COST AIRLINE SPREADS ITS WINGS

Manchester Airport Receives Single Biggest Airline Commitment. Ever

A deal which will initially bring Manchester airport SIX dedicated Boeing 737s, serving NINE exciting European destinations at fares starting FROM £21, was announced at a press conference in the city this morning by Philip Meeson, boss of the North's low cost airline Jet2.com.

The company, which already offers low cost travel to 14 destinations from Leeds Bradford and three from Belfast, sent out a clear message of commitment to the region with the size of its initial launch - the biggest ever by a scheduled airline at the North's largest airport.

The six Boeing 737 aircraft - each, like every plane in its fleet, owned by the company - will initially fly to nine destinations: Budapest, Faro, Geneva, Malaga, Murcia, Nice, Pisa, Valencia and Venice with one-way starting fares ranging from £21 to £31 including taxes.

The first flights will depart on December 1, 2004 from Manchester to the wonderful Hungarian city of Budapest and the following day to Murcia close to the world-famous La Manga resort in Spain.

Switzerland is the next launch with a Geneva service commencing on December 18 - the next service to Malaga commences on February 4 with four more destinations taking off on March 19, while the ninth destination starts on May 26 (see full schedule, below).

Seats go on sale at noon today following the announcement, which was made to journalists in Manchester at 10am this morning by Jet2.com boss Philip Meeson.

Philip Meeson said: "Our aim is to be the number one airline for leisure travellers in the North. We're here to build on our overwhelming success in Yorkshire and in Northern Ireland and we will be offering the people of Greater Manchester and beyond genuine low cost services.

"We launched at Leeds Bradford with fewer aircraft, and now we dominate low cost out of that region. This month alone we started a new service to Paris, launched a new route to Ibiza and announced a 50% increase to our summer 2005 timetable from our Yorkshire hub.

"This deal here in Manchester will initially mean almost 200 new jobs for people in the region, from cabin crew and pilots through to check-in staff and admin support.

"The size of today's announcement demonstrates our commitment to Manchester airport. It is a clear message that Jet2.com is not just here to stay, it's here to get bigger and better - we want more routes, we want more frequency and we want cheaper air travel for all."

John Spooner, Manchester Airport's Managing Director, said: "Jet2.com has quickly established itself as a major airline in the North of England and we are delighted that they have chosen Manchester as a major base for their future plans.

"'No Frills' is Manchester Airport's fastest-growing sector and we are pleased that Jet2.com is joining us."

Seats go on sale from noon today for all routes and the first Jet2.com services starts on December 1, 2004 with daily flights to Budapest in Hungary and a four-times weekly service to Murcia on the Spanish Costas the following day, - this route will become a double-daily service by March.

Ski enthusiasts will be delighted that one of Jet2.com's first services will be a daily, low cost service to Geneva, the Swiss ski capital, on December 18.

On February 4, 2005 the first flights depart for Faro, Malaga, Nice, Valencia and Venice, while Tuscany becomes a low cost option in May with a summer service to Pisa.

The Big Take-Off Timetable

December 1
1. Budapest, Hungary - daily from £21

December 2
2. Murcia, Spain - four-times weekly (double-daily by March) from £31

December 18
3. Geneva, Switzerland - daily from £21

February 4, 2005
4. Malaga, Spain - daily from £31

March 19, 2005
5. Faro, Portugal - daily from £31
6. Nice, France - daily from £21
7. Valencia, Spain - daily from £31
8. Venice, Italy - daily from £21

May 26, 2005
9. Pisa, Italy - daily from £21

All fares are one-way inclusive of taxes. For full fare and timetable information log on to www.jet2.com.

Dart Group PLC announces that it has signed a contract to acquire two Boeing 737 aircraft from Credit Lyonnais in Singapore.

The consideration will be met from existing cash and bank facilities.

The aircraft will be used to further expand the Group's aviation operations.

BEST OF BRITISH - Jet2.com RECEIVES TOP NATIONAL CONSUMER AWARD

Fast-expanding low cost airline, Jet2.com, which operates out of Leeds Bradford and Belfast International airports, has received a major independent customer satisfaction award from the Guardian and Observer. The airline beat 27 other major airlines in the 'Best Short-Haul Airline' category - it was the overall number one UK-based operator.

At an awards ceremony in Rhodes yesterday, Mariella Frostrup announced that Jet2.com was second to Nordic-based airline Finnair in the category which covered all charter, no-frills and scheduled short-haul airlines.

More than 22,000 travel consumers took part in the annual Travel Awards survey held by the Guardian, the Observer and Guardian Unlimited online users - only Finnair and Jet2.com were singled out for achieving such high satisfaction scores in a demanding field.

Jet2.com was the number one ranked UK-based low cost airline ahead of British Airways (8th), BMI Baby (10th), Flybe (17th), easyJet (18th) & Ryanair (24th).

Philip Meeson, Jet2.com boss, said: "Already, this has been a fantastic year for us so far - absolutely fantastic.

"In February we were awarded the title of the world's most punctual airline flying into Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, in March we surpassed the half-a-million passenger mark and in April we added three new routes: Leeds to Venice and Murcia and Belfast to Prague. However, this latest accolade is a real achievement for everyone associated with Jet2.com both in Yorkshire and in Northern Ireland as not only was it voted for by the public who fly with us it reflects the fantastic job our staff do for us.

"Perhaps unlike some airlines, for us low cost doesn't mean no-frills, and it certainly doesn't mean we neglect things like customer service and punctuality.

"These operating principals have been given a huge public endorsement and all of us at the airline are absolutely delighted with this award."

Travel Awards 2004

Rank, airline and percentage satisfaction score

Jet2.com

� Total votes cast in this category: 14,324. The average airline score was 65.8% � Travellers were asked to rate the quality of service they received on their airline by ticking one of four boxes: excellent, good, fair or poor. This score was translated into a percentage average.

RIDE ON TIME - NORTH'S LOW COST AIRLINE IS WORLD'S NO 1 INTO SCHIPHOL

Low cost airline Jet2.com is celebrating having scooped a prestigious award as the WORLD'S MOST PUNCTUAL AIRLINE flying into Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport - one of Europe's largest and busiest.

Almost a year after its inaugural flight into Holland Jet2.com, the North's low cost airline which operates from Leeds Bradford airport, has fought off stiff competition from airlines across the world before landing the most punctual airline award.

All 80 airlines operating to and from Schiphol were considered for the 2003 punctuality award, which is now in its eleventh year, and the UK carrier was placed first ahead of Finland's Finnair and Denmark's Maersk Air.

Jet2.com will be presented with this coveted prize on 5 February by Marike van Lier Lels, the airport's vice president, at a ceremony on the Schiphol site.

Philip Meeson, chief executive of Jet2.com, commented: "This is a major honour for our airline and a huge achievement by all of our staff. It takes more than just a first class flight crew and engineers to ensure we depart and arrive on time.

"There are many people at Jet2.com who are not customer facing and who work hard to ensure we meet our slot take-off times. We are absolutely thrilled to be officially voted the most punctual airline operating to one of the largest airports in Europe.

More.

"Although our passengers predominantly choose Jet2.com for our low fares to destinations across Europe, punctuality is a key issue for customers and this is particularly the case on business routes such as Amsterdam.

"Just as low cost doesn't mean no frills, it also doesn't mean we neglect things like customer service and timeliness and our business principals have been given a huge thumbs-up today."

Leon Verhallen, director of passenger airline marketing at Schiphol Airport, added: "Over 40 million passengers travel through Schiphol Airport every year and punctuality is a key requirement for the success of any carrier.

"Previous winners of the overall punctuality award have all been major carriers from the Nordic region. However, this year Jet2.com is the first UK carrier of any description to have even been nominated let alone win, which highlights its growing reputation on the continent."

Dart Group PLC announces that it will be purchasing six Boeing 737-300 passenger aircraft from receivers appointed by HSBC Bank Plc (Sydney Branch). The aircraft will be subject to a phased delivery schedule over the next six months.

After this purchase Dart's fleet of Boeing 737-300 aircraft will comprise 14 aircraft. This purchase will provide the necessary capacity to grow the Group's cargo and passenger operations. This investment is expected to make a positive contribution to Group profits in the 2004/05 financial year onwards.

The consideration, which will be financed in US Dollars, will be met from a combination of cash and new and existing bank facilities.

Dart Group PLC today announces that it will be purchasing two Boeing 737-300 aircraft. The aircraft will be delivered in February and March 2003. These aircraft were formerly operated by the Australian airline, Ansett.

After this purchase Dart's fleet of Boeing 737-300 aircraft will comprise eight aircraft, which are deployed on passenger and cargo charter contracts and on Jet2, its low cost airline operating out of Leeds Bradford International Airport.

The consideration will be met from both existing and new banking facilities.

Dart Group PLC, the aviation services and distribution group, announces today that trading to the end of January remained satisfactory and full year profits are anticipated to be in line with current market expectations.

Significant progress has been made in the amalgamation of the separate companies that currently comprise the Distribution Division into a single trading entity, which should be largely complete by 31 March 2003. The costs of this re-organisation are contained within the current market forecast.

In the Aviation Services Division the initial level of customer reservations in respect of its low cost airline, Jet2, has been encouraging. As a result of customer demand, on 3 January 2003, Jet2 announced that it would also be flying to Alicante, in addition to the six European business and leisure destinations already announced. Investors can find full details of the Jet2 operation on the company's website, www.jet2.com. The inaugural flight of Jet2 from Leeds Bradford to Amsterdam took place today.

Jet2 Goes 'Live' For Booking

Jet2 Yorkshire's own low cost airline ready for booking from 10.00am Wednesday 11th December

From 10.00am on the 11th of December the Jet2 website and call centre will be up and running to take bookings from passengers. In true low cost style, tickets will range from £15 one way to Amsterdam and £19 to hit the sunny climes of Southern Spain, Malaga. Prices include airport tax.

"Philip Meeson, Jet2's chief executive said, "With well over 22,000 hits on our website and over 12,000 people registered, the response from the region to the arrival of Jet2, has been phenomenal. We are confident, that we'll get off to a 'flying start'. So if you're thinking of a last minute Christmas present, or wanting to plan your summer holidays now, get booking."

The first new planes will be arriving at the airport this Wednesday. The distinctive logo and 'eye catching' silver colour of the aircraft will be an undoubted winner for plane spotters and travellers alike.

Ed Anderson, managing director of Leeds Bradford International Airport said, "Interest in this airline has been exceptional. The fact that people will be able to book low cost travel to so many popular destinations just in time for Christmas means that the people of the region can start to plan now for their Summer breaks."

Destinations	Costs: (One way, including taxes from)
Amsterdam	£15
Barcelona	£22
Malaga	£19
Nice	£32
Majorca	£19
Milan (Bergamo)	£32

To book flights call the Jet2 call centre
on 0870 737 8282 or log onto Jet2.com.

AVIATION DIVISION EXPANSION

Dart Group PLC, the aviation services and distribution group, announces that it will be expanding its Aviation Division's successful passenger operations to offer low cost passenger services from Leeds Bradford International Airport to European business and leisure destinations.

The Group has named the new low cost service "Jet 2" which will be operated by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Channel Express (Air Services), alongside its established contract passenger and cargo operations. This business will enable the Group to leverage its existing skill base and, in future, will also maximise the utilisation of its Boeing 737-300 "Quick Change" aircraft, which fly passenger services by day and cargo by night. The Group's management has been enhanced with further specialist passenger expertise. The Jet 2 service is seen as a natural extension of the Aviation Division's passenger operations, utilising both aircraft from the existing fleet and further Boeing 737-300 aircraft that will be acquired to support the expansion.

In the year to 31 March 2003, start up costs in the order of £2m will be incurred. In the first full year of operation, Jet 2 is forecast to be earnings neutral and become earnings enhancing thereafter. As an existing operating airline, the Group's Aviation Division already has the majority of the fixed cost structure to support this expansion which, therefore, should be viewed as incremental to the existing core operations.

Commenting, Philip Meeson, Chairman and Chief Executive, said "We are delighted to be working with Leeds Bradford International Airport which has a catchment area of 9.5 million people who are not adequately served by low cost carriers. It is my belief that JET 2 will be a significant contributor in the growth of the Group's profits in the years to come".

Dart Group PLC today announces that it has exchanged contracts for the purchase of four Boeing 737-300 aircraft. These aircraft were formerly operated by the Australian airline, Ansett, since new. They will be used to increase the capacity of the Group's B737 fleet of aircraft currently serving both the cargo and premium passenger market places.

The consideration will be satisfied from both new and existing bank facilities.

The new aircraft are expected to make a positive contribution to the long-term profitability of the Group from the 2003/04 financial year onwards.

Trading for the second half of the year ended 31st March 2002 was satisfactory and it is anticipated that the results due to be announced on 20th June 2002 will be in line with current market expectations.

Dart Group PLC - News