Before Covid, the direct flight between Bristol and Bologna was a lifeline for me and many other expats in Bristol with roots in Emilia Romagna. It offered a convenient, quick, and efficient way to connect our two homes. Moving to Bristol, I knew I could reach home in just a couple of hours. However, after Covid, this flight was cancelled, leaving us with no direct option to connect Bristol with Bologna. Now, we are forced to endure a cumbersome journey via Milan or Venice, stretching our travel to Rimini to a frustrating 12 hours or more.

The loss of this direct connection has caused inconvenience and hardship, impacting not only personal travels but also business and tourism between the UK and Italy. Bristol has a vibrant community of Italian expats who regularly travel back to Emilia Romagna for personal reasons and to maintain family ties. Additionally, the Western Italians, particularly those in Rimini, frequently visit Bristol for tourism and business purposes. These constant travels signify that a direct flight would be utilised extensively and would not be a waste.

Moreover, the economic benefits of reinstating this flight are significant. Reestablishing the Bristol-Bologna connection can boost tourism between these regions. Bristol offers a gateway to the UK’s scenic South West, while Bologna opens up the cultural and culinary treasures of Italy. The two regions could immensely benefit from the ease of travel, encouraging more frequent visits and promoting local businesses on both ends.

In practical terms, a direct flight can foster stronger economic ties, enhancing opportunities for trade and cultural exchanges between Bristol and Bologna. The demand exists, as evidenced by the previously high passenger numbers. By reinstating this direct flight, airlines can capitalize on the established demand while addressing the travel challenges currently faced by numerous passengers.

We urge the airline companies and relevant authorities to consider the needs of this community and the benefits too great to ignore. The Bristol-Bologna direct flight was not just a convenience; it was a necessary link. We ask for your support in signing this petition to bring back a vital connection for us all. Please sign and share this petition to help restore the Bristol to Bologna direct flight.