MANCHESTER — UK regional carrier Loganair has launched two new routes from Manchester Airport to Exeter and Southampton, marking a major step in the airline’s regional expansion and commitment to strengthening domestic connectivity.
The inaugural flights, which departed from Manchester Airport’s newly upgraded Terminal 2, connect northern and southern regions of the country with enhanced convenience for both business and leisure travellers. The expansion underscores Loganair’s strategy to solidify its presence in the UK’s regional aviation market at a time when demand for short-haul domestic travel continues to grow.
Expanding Connectivity from Manchester
Luke Lovegrove, Loganair’s Chief Commercial Officer, said the launch reflects the airline’s ongoing dedication to linking key regional hubs. “We’re thrilled to introduce these routes from Manchester,” he said.
“This move underscores our dedication to connecting regions across the UK. The strong initial demand is encouraging, and we’re excited to provide reliable, customer-focused service to even more travellers.”
The new services depart from Manchester’s Terminal 2, which is undergoing a major expansion project that will ultimately double its size. The revamped terminal features more seating, improved dining options, and increased space to accommodate growing passenger numbers, offering a smoother and more comfortable airport experience.
Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, emphasized the benefits of the expanded route network. “These new routes make it easier for people in the North to reach the South Coast and South West,” he noted. “They also open up Manchester’s global network of over 200 destinations to passengers from Exeter and Southampton, benefiting both business and leisure travellers.”
Competitive Pricing and Passenger Perks
The new routes offer a faster alternative to lengthy train journeys between the regions, with one-way fares starting at £72. Passengers also benefit from Loganair’s generous baggage allowance, which includes 15 kilograms of hold luggage and 6 kilograms of cabin baggage.
The airline’s family-friendly policies and reputation for top-tier customer service add to the value proposition, appealing to both frequent and first-time fliers. The move aligns with Loganair’s broader mission to provide dependable regional air links often underserved by larger carriers.
High Marks for Service and Reliability
Loganair’s focus on customer satisfaction continues to be recognized across the industry. In the 2025 Which? annual short-haul airline survey, the airline earned a 72% customer score, ranking second overall among UK short-haul operators. It also received a five-star rating for customer service and four stars for booking, boarding, and cleanliness — a testament to its emphasis on delivering a positive travel experience.
The carrier’s punctuality record further strengthens its standing. According to data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, Loganair was the most punctual UK airline in the second quarter of 2025, with 86% of flights arriving and departing on time. In an era where reliability has become a key differentiator, the airline’s operational consistency offers travellers a dependable choice for domestic flights.
Added Value for Frequent Flyers
Frequent travellers also benefit from Loganair’s partnership with a global travel rewards program, which allows customers booking through the airline’s website to earn Avios points. The partnership enhances value for business travellers and loyal customers, reflecting Loganair’s broader efforts to integrate regional operations with international travel benefits.
Strengthening a Regional Legacy
Founded in 1962, Loganair has evolved from a small Scottish carrier into one of the UK’s most established regional airlines, serving over 40 destinations across the British Isles and beyond. Its continued investment in routes like Manchester–Exeter and Manchester–Southampton positions it as a key player in maintaining the UK’s internal air connectivity amid changing travel patterns and growing regional economies.
With the addition of these southern routes, Loganair reinforces its role as a reliable bridge between regional centers — offering speed, comfort, and customer care to passengers seeking efficient alternatives to rail or road travel. The move highlights both the airline’s resilience and its responsiveness to renewed demand for domestic mobility.
As Lovegrove summarized, the new connections from Manchester are more than just route additions — they’re part of a broader vision to “provide reliable, customer-focused service to even more travellers.”
