Cyprus set to attract British visitors

A budget airline has confirmed that it is begin operating a new route between the UK and Cyprus next year.

Monarch will start running its twice-weekly service between Larnaca and Birmingham Airport in March 2009.

The move further enhances the ease of access to Cyprus, which could the Mediterranean island a popular choice for holidaymakers next summer.

Furthermore, the improved connectivity could enhance the appeal of Cyprus among foreign property investors, particularly lifestyle buyers in the West Midlands.

Liz Savage, managing director of Monarch, commented: "I am sure that the people of the Midlands will warmly welcome the introduction of this service."

Meanwhile, the aviation sector has received a boost as both Ryanair and easyJet have revealed a year-on-year increase in passenger numbers.

The former saw custom go up by 19 per cent in July 2008, while easyJet saw a 20 per cent rise over the same period.