The boss of one of Europe’s biggest airlines said he picked Leeds-Bradford International Airport for a £45 million investment because of its power for growth.

Michael O’Leary yesterday revealed Ryanair will be basing a new plane at the Yeadon site from the spring.

The move will create about 60 jobs and increase the company’s passenger flow to nearly one million – sustaining a further 1,000 jobs.

The deal will also create routes to Crete, Corfu, Dinard in France, Kos, Milan and Tenerife.

The Irish entrepreneur described the airport’s role as an “engine” growth as a major reason for the investment.

He said: “It’s a point the team have been drumming home in the region for many years – that Leeds-Bradford is one of the engines for real economic growth, tourism growth and job creation here.

“We’re very proud of our very successful partnership with Leeds-Bradford Airport.

“The team here have won this aircraft in the face of plenty of competition from other airports including in Spain, France and the Canaries. It is some testament to the job the entire team here at Leeds-Bradford is doing.”

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