Controversial Irish airline boss Michael O’Leary has hailed the firm’s operations at Leeds Bradford airport a success and announced an extension of winter tourist flights.

Mr O’Leary, Ryanair chief executive, said the company will operate its winter schedule from LBA on two aircraft serving 11 routes. Ryanair has also added the Lanzarote service to its winter schedule.

Mr O’Leary predicted Ryanair was on track to carry one million passengers a year from LBA, where its regional base sustained more than 1,000 jobs in the Yorkshire region.

Mr O’Leary said: “Ryanair is delighted to launch its winter 2011-12 schedule from Leeds Bradford which offers passengers 11 routes including the extension of our Lanzarote route.

“Ryanair will now deliver over one million passengers per annum and sustain over 1,000 local jobs at Leeds Bradford Airport and in the Yorkshire region. We are delighted to unveil an exciting new Ryanair winter schedule from Leeds Bradford with a great mix of low fares routes to winter sun and city break destinations as well as connections to East and West of Ireland.

“Leeds Bradford Airport’s partnership with Ryanair delivers vital tourism and business connections to the region.”