bmi regional, a UK-based budget airline, is set to launch the snow sports season with flights to European gateway airports that provide access to 300 snow resorts, from Bristol airport.
The announcement comes as the Ski Club of Great Britain reported that its Consumer Research 2013, covering 21,000 respondents, found that 95 percent of people that skied last season intend to ski in 2013-2014.
bmi regional fares, which start from GBP79 per person one way, include in-flight menu and full bar service, in addition to 20kg checked baggage, ideal for travelling with winter clothing. For those flying with their own skis or snowboard, the airline charges £30 per flight per item (up to 20kg in weight).
bmi regional’s fare from Bristol to the ski gateway of Munich, which is just two hours from the Alps, starts from £79 per person one way.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a popular European ski destination, and its neighbour, Mittenwald, are claimed to offer a vibrant Bavarian ambience and are only 120km from Munich airport. Oberstdorf, another popular resort for skiers and snowboarders alike, is also easily reached by train or road from Munich.
For the Italian Alps and Dolomites, bmi regional offers flights from Bristol to Milan, also starting from £79 per person one way.
Dolomiti Superski, an area that features 1,200km of slopes, is suitable for both skiers and snowboarders and offers guaranteed snow from December until April. Alta Badia, a ski resort at the heart of the Dolomites, is within easy reach of Milan, while Val Gardena, an ideal resort for beginners, offers a diversity of pistes across 175km of ski runs.