BUDGET airline bmibaby is to launch services from Manchester Airport, creating at least 50 jobs.

Two new aircraft will be based at Manchester from May 1, flying to a number of destinations in the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe. One-way fares will start from £12.50.

Manchester Airport will become bmibaby's third base in the UK following the airline's launch at East Midlands Airport last March and Cardiff International last October.

The low-cost airline also said it expected to announce a fourth UK base shortly.

It follows Ryanair's decision to scale down its operation in Manchester and easyJet's reluctance to set up base there because of high landing fees.

Both of those airlines operate from Liverpool's John Lennon Airport.

Destinations from Manchester will be announced on Monday.