BLACKPOOL Airport is gearing up for a buoyant New Year after the most comprehensive UK passenger survey every undertaken shows an increased demand for flights from Lancashire.

The survey, carried out by the Civil Aviation Authority, reflects the views of a third of a million air travellers.

In response, airport bosses are hoping to introduce regular flights to Malaga and are considering twice-daily flights to Paris and daily connections with Brussels.

They are also considering putting on more domestic flights for commuters and business travellers.

And talks have already begun with tour companies about offering flights to an increased number of holiday destinations, after finding out that the six most popular destinations for Lancashire holiday-makers are Palma, Tenerife, Malaga, Ibiza, Alicante and Arrecife closely followed by Faro, Mahon, Gran Canaria and Dalaman.

Airport managing director Roy Minear said: "Demand for flights from Blackpool Airport is rising steadily.

"This is not just due to our geographic location but also to the fact that we are easy to get to and enjoy a marked absence of queues and crowds and many other unique benefits of a small regional airport.

"A growing number of travellers and travel organisations are beginning to appreciate this."

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