A NEW airline will launch at Edinburgh Airport next summer with direct flights to a popular European city.

Austrian Airlines will touch down at Scotland’s busiest airport to operate three services each week to the city.

Flights will depart on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays on an Airbus A320 aircraft, with services running from June to September.

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Chief commercial officer at Edinburgh Airport Kate Sherry commented: “The arrival of Austrian Airlines is more great news for passengers, strengthening the links between two of Europe’s most fascinating cities in Edinburgh and Vienna.

“The airline’s decision to come to Edinburgh for the first time goes to show the strength of the market here, and the lure that the city – and Scotland – has as one of the world’s best tourist destinations.

“We’re always working hard to ensure passengers have as much choice as possible, and we’re looking forward to welcoming Austrian Airlines and working with them to facilitate another connection to the beautiful city of Vienna.”

Minister for Connectivity Jim Fairlie meanwhile welcomed the news, saying it will “provide another boost to our international connectivity”.

“This will strengthen the links between Scotland and Austria, which is excellent news for business connectivity as well as helping grow the economic benefits of tourism.

“We recognise the importance of Scotland’s international connectivity and we want to see it grow at all Scotland’s airports, capitalising on the huge demand to visit Scotland from around the globe.

“I wish Edinburgh Airport and Austrian Airlines every success and look forward to seeing the flights take off next summer.”