VLM Airlines to launch new Birmingham-Antwerp service

Birmingham is set to have a direct connection to the thriving commercial and tourist centre of Antwerp in Belgium, thanks to a new service by European carrier VLM Airlines launching on October 05, 2015. 

Passengers will be able to choose from daily return Birmingham-Antwerp flights, three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with one-way fares starting from £39.

Steve Blair, Chief Operating Officer of VLM Airlines, says: “Adding the Birmingham-Antwerp route to our network is another example of VLM listening to what business and leisure travellers want. There are strong business synergies between these cities for industries including fashion, diamond, automotive and chemicals. We are confident this new route will also be attractive to people looking for a city break and can be used as a gateway to Bruges, Ghent and Brussels, all accessible in under an hour from Antwerp.”

William Pearson, Aviation Development Director of Birmingham Airport, commented: “This new scheduled service linking Birmingham Airport to Antwerp is a welcome addition to the existing VLM route linking us to Waterford in Southeast Ireland. We expect this service to be popular with business travellers, given the airport’s proximity to the city centre, fast check-in service, and parking options, as well as leisure travellers. Both cities are hubs for tourists activities, with excellent connections to onward destinations.”

Paul Faulkner, Chief Executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, says: “This new route to Antwerp is great news for our region, as not only does it suit many businesses in the area and locals wanting to visit this beautiful city, but it is another step towards cementing Birmingham’s future as a vibrant, global city.”

VLM Airlines now offers scheduled services to seven destinations in five countries, including Geneva, Hamburg, Southampton, Waterford and London Luton.

Antwerp, September 19 2015