Flybe launches only scheduled flight from Kent

Flybe is to operate the only scheduled service out of Kent’s airport when it launches flights to Edinburgh in May.

The 80-minute daily service from Manston to the Scottish capital will be operated by Flybe’s 78-seat Bomberdier Q-400 turboprop aircraft.

Kent International Airport is in East Kent close to the seaside towns of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate with easy access to Canterbury and Dover.

Flybe’s chief commercial officer Mike Rutter said: “We’re delighted to be adding this new service to the South-East from Edinburgh and also to being the first carrier to offer Kent travellers a scheduled service out of Kent International. It also reflects our commitment to continued growth from our Edinburgh base and also to our development into new regions.”

Chief executive of Kent International Airport Matt Clarke added: “I’m sure this route will be hugely popular with people in Kent because Edinburgh is such a great place to visit. Flying to Kent International is a hassle-free way to arrive in south-east England. Our airport is easy to get to, easy to find your way around and allows passengers to enjoy flying the way it’s meant to be – boarding an aircraft merely metres from where you have parked your car.”

Kent airport, a significant air cargo port, has 800 acres and a long runway capable of hosting all commercial aircraft types.

By Dinah Hatch