EasyJet is to create a new base at Doncaster Sheffield Airport from next summer.
The budget carrier is to open five routes to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Faro, Palma and Prague.
In a further commitment to northern airports, a fifth aircraft is to be based at Manchester to allow for new services to be introduced to Mahon (Menorca). Sharm el Sheik and Zurich from next spring.
The moves means that EasyJet will become the largest airline in the North of England with 20 aircraft based at its northern airports.
The airlines expects to carry over six million passengers to and from the North of England in 2010.
Eighteen per cent of the airline’s UK capacity will operate from the North of England, with 40% of its total UK network operating outside of London serving the regions.
Overall expansion plans for 2010 include the introduction of 36 new routes across Europe.
UK regional manager Paul Simmons said: “EasyJet is committed to expansion across the UK regions, tapping in to new catchment areas such as Yorkshire and Humberside and providing greater access to our famously low fares and convenient services from your local airport.”
by Phil Davies
