New flights linking Kent with the Channel Island of Jersey is to take off next year.

C. I. Travel Group, based in Jersey, has announced the launch of a new service from London Ashford Airport - Lydd – in 2010.

Kent has previously been linked with Jersey with services from Kent International Airport at Manston. They will continue next year.

The Lydd service on a 50-seat Fokker will by operated by CityJet on Saturdays between July 10 and September 11

Lydd Airport is celebrating the launch by providing free car parking for all passengers flying to Jersey next year. The terminal is just 50 metres from the car park.

Robert Mackenzie, managing director of C. I. Travel Group, said: “We are delighted to have concluded negotiations for the launch of a new service from Lydd in the summer of 2010.

“With many more UK holiday-makers deserting the Euro-zone in favour of a holiday closer to home, we believe that this new route will prove to be popular with both new and existing clients in Kent and Sussex.”

David de Carteret, director of Jersey Tourism, welcomed the announcement, saying the new service would open up an excellent opportunity for the island to market itself “to a community that can now put Jersey on their shopping list as a very convenient and attractive option. We look forward to working together to secure a successful operation.”

Lydd Airport’s Jo Oliver said: “With its easy access and fast, hassle-free check-in service, Lydd Airport offers a relaxed and friendly alternative to Gatwick for those who want to explore Jersey. This beautiful island has a wealth of attractions, from adventure parks and castles to superb shops, markets, cafes and restaurants, and we’re sure the new service from Lydd will be extremely popular.”

The route will be sold through C. I. Travel Group’s brands that include Airways Holidays, Discover Jersey and Channel Islands Travel Service. The route will also be available to Jersey hoteliers wishing to offer their own clients from Kent and East Sussex a direct flight to the island.

C.I. Travel Group has announced that direct flights from Manston to Jersey will continue next summer, with a service every Saturday from May 29 to September 11, also using a 50-seat aircraft.

C. I. Travel Group is the Channel Islands’ largest tour operator. In 2009 the Group carried more than 30,000 passengers from the UK to the islands. It has been trading for some 25 years.