PLANESTATION, operators of Kent International Airport and EUjet, has signed an agreement with Smart Wings, the low cost Czech Republic airline.

The code sharing deal will see the two operators co-operate on the Prague to Kent route, after the Czech airline switched its UK operations from Gatwick to Manston.

It means Smart Wings passengers will now be able to fly into the UK aboard one of EUjet’s three flights a week from the Czech Republic’s capital.

Martin May, chief executive of PlaneStation, said: "Not only is this a recognition of KIA’s operational competitiveness, it means that we are now on the radar as a viable alternative to other South East airports.

"We are confident that other low cost airlines will take the decision to operate from KIA both for code sharing and direct flights.

"As well as using KIA as a gateway for its passengers looking to visit London, Smart Wings will also be marketing Kent as a visitor destination which in turn will be good news for the county’s tourism industry."

Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of Kent Tourism Alliance, said: "More overseas visitors to Kent means greater revenue for our hotels, attractions and leisure facilities, which in turn will create more jobs for local people."

Factfile

* Smart Wings is the official carrier of the Czech Republic Football Association.

* It works closely with Cedo, the country’s oldest and the most experienced travel agency.

* Smart Wings serves 12 destinations from Prague including Madrid, Paris and Rome.