TOURISM chiefs have hailed the introduction of new non-stop flights from Mumbai to Manchester Airport as a great opportunity for Cumbria’s £2.9billion visitor economy.

The first Jet Airways service linking the Indian sub-continent with Northern England will arrive in Manchester on Monday and it’s hoped the new connection will both support trade and encourage more leisure visitors from the world’s fastest growing economy.

Cumbria Tourism’s Managing Director Gill Haigh is one of those attending a special VIP event at Manchester Airport to mark the inaugural flight on Monday and the Lake District and Cumbria will have a huge appeal to potential new visitors heading to Northern England from one of India’s major cities.

She said: “Research carried out by our colleagues at VisitBritain has shown that Indian visitors are attracted to culture, heritage and the natural beauty of the landscape – which Cumbria has in abundance.

“With the lure of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a world-class reputation as a visitor destination, we have a compelling message to tell.

“Together with new and expanded services from the USA later in 2019, it’s an exciting time for developing some of our most important overseas markets.”

Ahead of the launch, Cumbria Tourism has been working closely with a range of organisations to help nurture new relationships with potential new Indian visitors.

The first Jet Airways flight from Mumbai is due to touch-down in Manchester on Monday.