Final Monarch plane leaves Leeds Bradford Airport

It was a poignant moment for former staff and customers of low-cost airline Monarch.

The last of the airline's planes based at Leeds Bradford Airport has left to begin the next chapter of its operational life.

The empty aircraft, registered G-zbap, took off at 1.40pm on Friday for the final time in Monarch livery. It is thought to be heading for Norway following the airline's collapse.

Monarch's 35-strong fleet are likely to be sold or leased to other airlines, having been grounded since the start of the month.

The pilot of another Monarch plane performed a farewell 'wing wave' gesture when departing the Leeds Bradford runway for Shannon in Ireland earlier this month.

Photographer Andrew Easby captured this image of the plane leaving.