FLIGHTS from Manchester Airport to New York are soaring, the airport says. BA and Continental are reporting increased passenger numbers on their New York services as people return to flying following the terrorism attacks of September 11.

British Airways has revealed that passenger numbers in September were up by 50 per cent -- an increase of 3,000 passengers on 2001 levels. October bookings were also up 30 per cent on 2001.

The company says bookings for November and December also look strong as travellers head to the Big Apple for the Thanksgiving Day celebrations and pre-Christmas shopping.

Continental Airlines also report an increase in passenger numbers on its New York routes.

Passenger figures for September were12,282 (up from

10,882 in September 2001).

Cllr Brian Harrison, Chairman of Manchester Airport Plc, said: "It is

good to see that travellers are now returning to the New York services with renewed confidence and are also recognising that Manchester Airport offers a choice of transatlantic carriers with highly competitive fares."