MANX2.com has said it is "flattered" that easyJet and Ryanair appear to be following in its footsteps. 

The local airline has spoken out after easyJet launched a new flexible fare aimed at business travellers.

Noel Hayes chairman of Manx2.com said: "As newcomers to the Island they have recognised the quality of Manx2.com's innovative business offering and have launched their own version - although aren't quite able to match all of the benefits which we included when we launched Manx Gold last year."

easyJet's new flexible fare gives passengers the flexibility to change their flight up to two hours before the scheduled departure time.

Carolyn McCall, chief executive of easyJet, said: "We have seen a growing trend of business travellers choosing to fly easyJet. It's easy to see why - easyJet has the best European network, we fly to main airports, and maintain low fares for passengers.

"The easyJet flexible fare has been specifically designed to meet the needs of the business traveller making it even more attractive to choose to fly with easyJet."

Noel continued: "We're always flattered when the big boys follow in our little footsteps and this isn't the first time one of the larger 'low-cost' airlines has copied the successful Manx2.com model.

"For some time now Ryanair have aired the possibility of reducing the number of toilets on their planes to allow for more seating and bring down fares – we did that four years ago!"

Andrew McConnell, easyJet's corporate affairs manager responded: "I'd like to thank them (Manx2.com) for letting everyone know about easyJet's new flexible fare offering to business travellers."

What do you think? Do you think the low-cost airlines have copied Manx2.com – leave us your comments by filling in the comments box below.