Minister welcomes airline's confidence in market

easyJet looks set to be taken over by an American firm

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston says the announcement of easyJet's first international route from Ronaldsway shows its confidence in the local market. 

Mr Johnston was asked in Tynwald about the recent news on the airline's proposed sale to an American investment firm.

He said it was too early to comment on a possible sale until that had been completed but the airport is working on strengthening air links. 

The minister however warned that the airline will make business decisions and that more than anything else will determine its future with the Island. 

He said: "Ultimately, these are commercial decisions. My understanding would be that easyJet will continue to service the Isle of Man because it is in their interest to do so. If it's not in their interest to do so, they'll make a commercial decision and they will make it."

The minister said the government role is to 'maintain those relationships with the likes of easyJet' while also confirming that airport bosses are talking to other carriers and other players and his department supports it in doing so to improve the island's air routes.