SOUTHEND Airport has enjoyed its busiest ever summer.

The Echo can reveal 230,000 passengers travelled through the Essex terminal in July and August – a 30 per cent increase on the same period last year, when 177,000 used the airport.

This year was the best since formal records began in 1967.

The most popular destination was Amsterdam, followed by Alicante and Barcelona.

Since its new terminal opened in March, more than 1.25 million trips have been made. David Lister, the airport’s operations director, said the short waits to board flights and good transport links were the key to success.

He added: “Once people experience our unique offer they keep coming back and tell their friends, family and colleagues.

“That is why we are extending the terminal to ensure we continue to deliver these high standards of customer service.

“We are also working closely with all our partners to offer an even wider variety of destinations for business and leisure travellers, at a reasonable cost all year round.”

David Burch, director of policy at the Essex Chambers of Commerce said: “It’s good to see this, and more people are realising it’s a realistic option for getting away from the UK for business or pleasure.

“It’s done extremely well and we’re looking forward to its continued success in coming years.”

Southend Council leader Nigel Holdcroft said: “It’s not surprising, after the massive investment it has had, but obviously it’s heartening that it is doing so well.

“We need to balance that expansion with keeping the environment for residents as pleasant as possible.”

Rochford Council leader Terry Cutmore added: “There are a lot more jobs in the area as a result and it’s good news all round for local people.”

The airport was voted best in the country by readers of Which?

Magazine last month.