A NEW airline is confident of striking a deal with Southend Airport following a successful visit to discuss new routes.

Atmosphere Airlines say new routes to Spain are on the table and being discussed as the firm pushes ahead with plans to open an office at the airport and introduce new routes.

It comes after easyJet returned to Southend Airport in May.

Bosses of the new airline met with airport owners on Tuesday.

Atmosphere Airlines is a startup airline, that states it is eyeing up deals with Stansted, Manchester and Southend Airports, but is yet to get a plane off the ground in the UK.

Jason Unsworth, founder and chief executive, said European short hall routes are on the cards.

He said: “We discussed our plans to open an office at the airport, to begin our new airline and tour operations.

“All European short haul routes are an option, and being heavily considered for 2023, or sooner if regulations allow.

“Bosses of the airport are very positive and happy to support us as an airline company to enable the airport to succeed once again.

“The prospects of the airport returning to pre Covid levels are very strong, considering the airport has a direct train line and station right outside the terminal building, and from train to plane can be reached in as little as 4 minutes.”

Steve Buckley, Tory councillor for St Laurence, said: “It all sounds very positive. It allows for so much more convenience having flights from Southend and saves a trip to larger airports that are further away.

“It is also likely to mean more jobs which is a very good thing. There’s no doubt the industry has been very badly affected by the pandemic.

“It will also help our economy in Southend and will bring more people here and be a real boost for our city.”

Mr Unsworth added: “Considering that Southend previously had numerous high demand routes to Spain, other routes in line will likely go down well with the public The main goal is that Southend Airport has a choice of routes that tailor to the wide range of travellers most likely to fly from there.”

Southend Airport stated it would not comment on specific discussions, but confirmed talks are ongoing with a number of airlines.