Bmi regional is to launch flights from Southampton to Munich in April in a move expected to be popular with business travellers.
It will operate 12 flights a week to the capital of Bavaria, home to several global brands including BMW and Siemens, from April 15.
For leisure visitors, Munich is best known for its annual Oktoberfest beer festival and its Christmas markets.
The airport is also one of the major gateways to the Bavarian and Austrian Alps.
Dave Lees, Southampton Airport’s managing director, said: "Scheduled air services to Munich have been requested by many businesses, so this is great news.
"Key industries that have links in our two regions include aerospace, advanced engineering and IT. There is also substantial demand from the German market for cruises leaving the Port of Southampton, so these air links will be popular. We look forward to welcoming bmi regional to Southampton Airport in the spring."
