Fewer passengers for IOM airport

The transport minister is optimistic about the summer season

The number of passengers using the Isle of Man's airport has fallen by more than 11.8% in the last month.

Figure show 8,470 fewer passengers travelled in May compared with the same period last year.

The north-west routes have suffered the most, an airport spokesman said, with a reduction of 4,500 passengers.

Scottish routes and those to the south and south-west of England, had declines of about 30%. Passenger numbers to the Midlands and Ireland have also fallen.

However, more frequent services to Blackpool and Newquay and increases in traffic to London City have helped bolster the overall figure.

Ann Reynolds, airport director for the Isle of Man said: "Many UK airports are experiencing 15% to 25% decreases, compared with 2008," she said.

"The Isle of Man is still slightly ahead of the game, despite another disappointing month. I believe that we are now seeing the full impact of the recession on not only business traffic, but upon the start of the summer leisure season."

Minister of Transport David Anderson MHK said he was optimistic that passenger numbers would increase over the peak summer period.