The flight leads in at £399.98 return for economy and £699.99 premium class, with departures taking place on Mondays and Saturdays.

Following its launch, it is the only direct service to the west coast city departing outside of London.

Passengers on the flight were joined by TV chef James Martin who has created the airlines’ inflight menu.

Christoph Debus, Thomas Cook’s chief airlines and hotels officer, said: “This is such an amazing day for our customers and our airline.

“We’ve invested £100 million in upgraded interiors and have a stunning new long-haul fleet, which is matched by James Martin’s fantastic new menu.

“We are the largest long-haul carrier from Manchester airport and offer the best US leisure destinations for holiday makers in the north west and will keep putting our customers at the heart of everything we do.”

Stephen Turner, commercial director at Manchester airport, added:  “This route makes Manchester the only UK airport outside of London to offer a direct service to LA and offers our 23.5m annual passengers easy access to the west coast of the US.

“Furthermore it showcases the role Manchester airport plays in UK aviation, offering a wealth of long haul destinations, which no other UK airport outside of London has.

“I am sure this route will be a success and hope all the passengers on the first flight have a great trip to the US.”