Manchester Airport has announced direct fights to Bahrain will be available via Gulf Air from June 1.
The airline will run two flights a week, which will benefit around 28,000 passengers who currently travel to the country via connecting routes.
Return economy flights start from £613, while business class tickets begin at £3,159.
Ian Costigan, Interim Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said: “The announcement of a third long-haul route coming to Manchester within the last month 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 Gulf Air to the airport and wish them every success with the route.”
Visitors to Bahrain do not currently require a negative PCR certificate to board the flight.
Approximately two million people across the north of England currently travel to destinations with Gulf Air that aren’t served by Manchester Airport.
Sheona Southern, Managing Director of Marketing Manchester, said: “Routes old and new are rapidly returning at Manchester Airport, proving that the demand for international travel and tourism is back.
“We look forward to offering a warm welcome to visitors from the GCC region who will be arriving with Gulf Air from 1 June.”
