The Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, has confirmed the decision of the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) that the licence for the second UK carrier to operate services between Heathrow and Moscow should be granted to British Midland.

British Midland has consistently argued that its proposed services, together with its network of connecting UK and European routes at Heathrow represents the best overall option to travellers.

Sir Michael Bishop, chairman, said:

“Obviously we are delighted that the Secretary of State has upheld the decision announced by the CAA last December.
“We plan to introduce services as soon as possible but must await confirmation of our designation from the the Russian Federation authorities.

“This extremely important ruling is something of a watershed as it provides us with the ability and the headroom to compete with the established flag carriers on another important European route.

“We look forward to adding Moscow to our growing number of central and east European destinations where we have been able to bring the benefits of much-needed competition to travellers.”

British Midland launched services to Prague from Heathrow in October 1995 and to Warsaw from Heathrow in July last year. This summer the airline will provide a double daily service to Warsaw as well as adding a new daily return service from Heathrow to Budapest.

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