CITY breaks to plush European destinations could be the future of Southend Airport and finally help it return to the heights seen pre-pandemic, it has been claimed.

Last week, Southend Airport and easyJet announced the return of the once popular route to Geneva, in Switzerland, sparking excitement from residents and holiday-makers.

Following the popularity of routes to Paris and Amsterdam, confidence is now growing that the airport will return to its former success with city breaks - rather than traditional summer sun-seeking holidays - likely to be key.

Daniel Cowan, St Lawrence ward Labour councillor, said: "I certainly think it's heading that way.

"More and more people are looking at city breaks, and with the cost of living crisis, more people are going for that option.

"Southend Airport is always opening up new routes and if there's an opportunity to bring more of these popular holiday forms, then that's a good thing."

For years, Stansted Airport has been the "go-to" airport for summer holidays for Essex flyers, with dozens of routes every week to destinations across Spain and the likes of the Canary Islands.

Last week, the airport published plans to extend the existing terminal to expand its offering - adding even more competition for Southend Airport.

Aside the city destinations, Southend Airport also offers routes to Malaga, Majorca and Faro which are proving popular, helping to ensure there is "something for everyone" from Southend Airport.

Kevin Buck, Tory councillor responsible for highways, transport and parking, said: "There is demand for both city breaks and long-haul destinations.

"Before Covid, the airport was thriving with the two to four flights, and they were very popular and well supported.

"I hope Southend Airport can have a mix of both city and long-haul destinations."

When asked if the airport is in talks with easyJet for more city breaks, a Southend Airport spokesperson said: "With we continue to be in talks with a number of airlines; our focus is on growth of all kinds and a capacity return of all types."

Similarly, a spokesperson for easyJet said: "We are delighted to have announced a new route to Geneva joining routes to Malaga, Majorca, Faro, Amsterdam and Paris from London Southend, offering customers a mix of beach and city destinations.

"We continually review opportunities for our network with all our airports where we see customer demand."