Helvetic Airways has launched a new service between Welsh capital Cardiff and Zurich in Switzerland.

Passengers on the departure will now be able to fly direct from Cardiff to Zurich four days a week. Flights will operate from Cardiff on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

The route uses the 100 seat Fokker aircraft and it is the first time during the airport’s history that it has operated a direct route to Zurich.

It is hoped the service will attract business and leisure travellers to and from Wales as well as south-west England.

Spencer Birns, head of commercial operations and air services development of Cardiff Airport, said: “Research conducted by the airport and the airline demonstrated that Zurich is a sought after business destinations from Wales and we are hoping the new service will be welcomed by the business community at both ends of the route.”

Helvetic Airways will offer flights from £99 one way.

Bruno Jans, chief executive of Helvetic Airways AG, said: “We are pleased the first flights are selling well especially from Zurich to Cardiff showing a real interest in Wales for both business and leisure purposes.

“We have seen a good response to our promotional flight offer of £99 one way including taxes and charges and hope the route continues to do well as visitors to both Switzerland and Wales see what each respective destination has to offer and book a return visit.”