Manchester Airport announces new direct flight to Kuwait

Kuwait Airways is to begin flying from Manchester Airport for the first time in welcome news for the 49,000 people each year who already travel from the airport’s catchment to the Middle Eastern nation.

The direct flight to Kuwait from Manchester will launch on 1st May 2022, improving connections for those with family and personal as well as business links to the region. The service will also benefit the 800,000 people who travel from Manchester Airport to other destinations in Asia served by Kuwait Airways, including major business hubs such as Bangkok, Mumbai, Delhi and Manila.

Tourism to the North of England is also set to benefit, with travellers from Kuwait spending £22 million each year.

The region’s universities are also home to 2,960 Kuwaiti students who will also benefit from the convenience of a direct route back home to visit family and friends.

Ian Costigan, Interim Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said:

“It’s great news that Kuwait Airways is starting direct flights from Manchester Airport, and I am sure it will be incredibly well received by the thousands of people in our catchment area that travel there indirectly each year.

“The announcement of another long-haul route coming to Manchester clearly shows the role we play in connecting the North to key global destinations. Not only do routes like these make travel easier, but they put the region on the international map for trade, economic and tourism opportunities, plus create a wealth of jobs in the process.

“I look forward to welcoming the team from Kuwait Airways to the airport and wish them every success with the route.”

Maen Razouqi, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, stated:

“Kuwait Airways is proceeding ahead, according to its well-thought-out and effective plans in moving forward towards expanding its network of operations around the world, with the launch of new and diverse destinations that suit the preferences of its customers and meet their aspirations. Accordingly, the Company launches its scheduled flights to Manchester in the United Kingdom from 1^st May 2022, with three flights per week on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“Manchester as a destination is of great importance to Kuwait Airways’ customers. The selection came after an increased demand for it as a distinct destination for tourists, especially in the summer season, which is expected to witness an unprecedented boom in the tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors. In addition, the launching of Manchester as a destination in KAC’s network will assist a large segment of students to study abroad in Universities in Manchester and in England.

“Moreover, Kuwait Airways, as the National Carrier of Kuwait, owns a new young fleet, supported by the latest technology that keeps pace with the aspirations of customers in the aviation sector, including entertainment, comfortable seats, excellent service, and assistance. The presence of the fleet and the arrival of the new aircraft will greatly contribute to the implementation of the plans, reach the desired objectives, and will also support the services offered to passengers, in providing a safe and pleasant journey on board the Blue Bird.”

Flights between Manchester Airport and Kuwait are set to begin from May 1st, and operate using A320 NEO aircraft on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, arriving in Manchester at 11.45am and departing at 12.45pm.