Britannia Airways begins Leeds Bradford operations
This was back in 1976 - not sure if it was for the summer season or winter 1976-77 - but it marked the beginning of regular IT flights to the Mediterranean from LBA operated by jets. Up until this time, IT flights were to destinations closer to home and usually flown by Viscounts and similar-sized propliners, although there were occasional Caravelles from Transavia and 737s from Mey Air and Braathens. Then, the Britannia 737s came along flying to the likes of Palma and Alicante.
What, or who, motivated Britannia (and Thomson Holidays) to come to LBA in the first place ? I expect the acquisition of the Advanced 737 was partly responsible given the 5400 ft runway back then. Was it just an ordinary business deal, was Thomson looking to expand its number of departure points? At the time, Air Europe and Orion weren't around to provide competition and none of the Dan-Air or Monarch fleets were suitable for what Britannia was doing.
Thankyou.
Last edited by Mooncrest; 23rd Nov 2020 at 15:28.