Thomas Cook Airlines’ inaugural Los Angeles flight took off today, marking a new foothold in its position as the biggest long-haul carrier from Manchester.
Customers were treated to a celebration of film and fame at check-in and the gate, with Hollywood look-alikes, classic film theme tunes and LA Cooler cocktails from the bar. 

Creator of Thomas Cook Airlines’ in-flight meals, James Martin, was also present to sign books for competition winners and take photos with customers. 

Continuing his complete design-to-dish management of the in-flight menu, James then joined the flight with his development chefs to do a taste test at 35,000ft to make sure that his clever use of umami – the fifth flavour sensation – works to ensure great flavours can still be experienced, even when altitude reduces the effectiveness of taste buds by 30%.

Thomas Cook’s Chief Airlines and Hotels Officer, Christoph Debus, said: “This is such an amazing day for our customers and our airline. We’ve invested £100 million in upgraded interiors and have a stunning new long-haul fleet, which is matched by James Martin’s fantastic new menu.

“We are the largest long-haul carrier from Manchester Airport and offer the best US leisure destinations for holiday makers in the north west and will keep putting our customers at the heart of everything we do.”

Stephen Turner, Commercial Director at Manchester Airport, said: “We are absolutely delighted today to see Thomas Cook Airlines inaugural flight to Los Angeles leave from Manchester Airport, the UK’s global gateway for the North. 

“This route makes Manchester the only UK airport outside of London to offer a direct service to LA and offers our 23.5m annual passengers easy access to the West Coast of the USA. 

“Furthermore it showcases the role Manchester Airport plays in UK aviation, offering a wealth of long haul destinations, which no other UK airport outside of London has. 

“I am sure this route will be a success and hope all the passengers on the first flight have a great trip to the USA.”

Direct flights to Los Angeles from Manchester Airport are available from £399.98 return for economy and £699.99 Premium class, with departures on Mondays and Saturdays

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