Cardiff Airport welcomes new airline
Cardiff Airport has today announced that Swiss airline Helvetic Airways will be launching a new route from Cardiff to Zurich.
From March 2011 passengers will be able to fly direct from Cardiff to Zurich four days a week. Flights will operate from Cardiff on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Fridays.
The route will use the 100 seat Fokker aircraft and it will be the first time during the airport's history that it has operated a direct route to Zurich. It will be a unique service to attract travellers to and from Wales as well as south western England.
Patrick Duffy, managing director of Cardiff Airport, said: "We are extremely pleased to be welcoming Helvetic to Cardiff Airport.
"The new route will offer our customers a quick and convenient way to access one of Europe's most attractive destinations and we are hoping it will be welcomed by our customers and in particular the business community here in Wales.
"Research conducted by the airport demonstrated that Zurich is one of the most sought after business destinations from Wales, and therefore after months of hard work we're delighted Helvetic Airways has decided to offer this route to south Wales travellers.
"Not only is Zurich one of Europe's largest financial capitals it is also a fantastic leisure destination. This route opens up a wide range of new holiday destinations for our customers, whether it's for a city, walking or skiing break."
Helvetic Airways CEO Bruno Jans added: "We are proud to announce the direct air link between Zurich and Cardiff, allowing the Swiss holidaymaker to discover Wales and offering a convenient connection to the Welsh and the Swiss business traveller.
Our research has convinced us that this service will be providing what the market has been asking for. We are looking forward to welcoming Welsh guests on board which will give us a chance to demonstrate the high Swiss air travel standards, comfort and quality of service which our regular Swiss guests are already familiar with."
Deputy First Minister of Wales, Ieuan Wyn Jones said, "I am extremely pleased to hear that Helvetic Airways will be providing a new and exciting service from Zurich to Cardiff Airport and look forward to welcoming many new tourists and businesses to our shores each year. We have worked hard in recent years to create a strong bond between our two nations and with many Swiss companies already established here, today's news can surely only enhance our relationship further."
Described by Lonely Planet as 'vibrant, trendy and gorgeous' and one of the five most liveable cities in the World, Zurich is far more than a banking capital, and is a top class holiday destination.
Helvetic Airways will offer flights from £99 one way, including all taxes and charges for a limited period. Customers will be able to book flights to Zurich from Cardiff from 03 November 2010 in Swiss Francs, and in GBP from 15 November 2010. Tickets can purchased online at www.helvetic.com.