The new flights come in the run-up to the June 17 launch of flights between Lisbon and Birmingham with the Monarch statement adding that these flights would take place four times a week.

The statement quotes Monarch executive director, Andrew Swaffield, expressing satisfaction at getting Lisbon onto its list of destinations as it was "the ideal destination for a city-break or a long-weekend."

Lisbon thus becomes Monarch’s third Portuguese destination with flights to and from Faro and Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds Bradford whilst Funchal, Madeira is served by flights from Birmingham, Gatwick and Manchester.