Aer Lingus is moving to close its operating base at Manchester Airport (Image: Team Jackson/Getty Images)

Irish carrier Aer Lingus has confirmed it is moving to shut down its operational hub at Manchester Airport . The decision could potentially impact approximately 200 positions, with the airline confirming it has begun consultation discussions with trade unions.

Aer Lingus currently runs long-distance services from Manchester to New York JFK, Barbados and Orlando in Florida, alongside connections to Dublin and Belfast. However, the carrier stated that its Manchester long-distance operational profit margins 'continue to significantly lag behind that of Aer Lingus's Irish longhaul operating margin'.

The company has confirmed meetings have taken place with employees regarding the s

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