Manchester was the sixth most visited destination in the world by customers of Etihad Airways in 2013, proving more popular than Sydney, Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur.
More than 12million passengers travelled on Etihad airways flights last year, Middle-Eastern website The National revealed earlier this month, with a substantial number landing in Manchester.
Bangkok topped the list, while London and Paris came third and fifth respectively and Paul Simpson, managing director of the city’s official tourism board, Visit Manchester, was delighted with the sixth-place ranking.
“I’m thrilled by the news that Manchester was one of Etihad Airways’ most visited destinations last year,” said Mr Simpson.
“Tourists visit Manchester for its sporting and musical exports, world-class shopping, museums and galleries, as well as an increasingly sophisticated dining scene and vibrant nightlife.
“We also have many high-profile events that pull in visitors, and highlights from last year included Manchester International Festival, the Ashes and the Rugby League World Cup.”
The findings underline Manchester’s growing international reputation which has seen the city become the third-most visited destination in the UK for overseas tourists.
Such popularity is in no small part down to the amiable nature of Manchester citizens according to Mr Simpson.
He said: “The residents of the Manchester have a significant role to play in terms of improving the visitor experience and the friendliness of Mancunians is often quoted by tourists as something that stays with them after their visit.”
With 2014 now well underway Mr Simpson believes Manchester will continue to be a thriving hub of tourist activity over the next 12 months.
“This year, alongside the Food and Drink, science, history, jazz and Pride festivals, we also have a number of key cultural re-openings to keep visitors busy, including Central Library, Elizabeth Gaskell’s House and the Whitworth Art Gallery,” he added.
Meanwhile Clive Wratten, the UK General Manager of Etihad Airways, cited the company’s partnership with Manchester City as a contributing factor to the city’s popularity with their customers.
“Our association with Manchester City has undoubtedly increased awareness of Etihad and of the huge range of global destinations – now totalling 102 – that we offer,” Mr Wratten said.
Manchester was a destination most popular with Etihad Airways customers from Australia and Abu Dhabi in 2013, with many people also using the airline to return home to the city.
And Mr Wratten is optimistic that Manchester will remain in favour with Etihad customers in 2014.
“With more seats available on Etihad Airways flights from Manchester than ever before, we are confident that 2014 will be just as successful as 2013,” he added.
Picture courtesy of Gabriel Li StudioGave via Flickr, with thanks
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