As Operation Stack continues to bring misery to motorists and tourists, an air charter company in Kent is enjoying a surge in demand.

World Executive Airways, based at Lydd Airport in Romney Marsh, has had a flood of inquiries during the six weeks of disruption caused by problems at Calais and in the Channel Tunnel.

Affluent travellers are turning to the luxury carrier’s fleet – including jet, turbo-prop and piston-type aircraft – although the service will not be alleviating the build up of traffic.

Its biggest plane has seating for up to nine passengers.

More than 50 holidaymakers, bosses and companies have got in touch with the company looking for a quick way to get to France since the disruption on the M20 began, leading to an upturn in business of about 15%.

The firm has carried rush cargo and a Channel 4 film crew racing across to cover the chaos in Calais.

The company is also licensed to carry dangerous goods and has shipped an urgently-needed aircraft part to a commercial passenger jet in the south of France.

Managing director Jonathan Gordon said: “Unfortunately 2015 will be remembered as a summer of misery for so many people caught up in this awful transport mess.

“While we have massive sympathy for everyone affected, it has generated a considerable amount of extra business for us.

“We offer highly competitive charter rates to anyone in the UK who needs to cross the Channel during this time of traffic disruption and chaos.

“Our service is highly flexible and we can tailor our charters to meet any requirements.”