Helios Airways has expanded its operation at Gatwick Airport by launching a new scheduled service to Paphos as part of its winter and summer programme.

The Cypriot airline has been operating charter flights out of Gatwick for over three years, but this is their first scheduled service to fly from the UK`s second largest airport.

The maiden flight will be on 1st November, with the service running twice a week (Thursdays and Saturdays) throughout the Winter until 27th March 2004.

Based in the South Terminal, Helios will be flying a B737-800, 189 seat aircraft on the route, offering passengers full onboard service including a choice of meals and refreshing towels, and the latest in-flight entertainment.

Andreas Christodoulides, Sales and Marketing Manager for Helios Airways, is confident the new route will be a success. He said: Paphos is basked in sunshine all year round so I am sure it will prove to be a popular destination for holidaymakers, while there is also a large market of UK residents with second homes in Cyprus.

He continued: Helios has enjoyed rapid expansion in recent years, and we are delighted to launch this new service from Gatwick, which is the latest milestone in our growth. We are renowned for our competitive fares and the highest levels of service, and we look forward to welcoming passengers on the inaugural flight on November 1st

Simon Edwards, BAA Gatwick`s Marketing and Communications Manager, is pleased to welcome the airline`s first scheduled service to Gatwick. He said: Helios has run a successful charter operation from Gatwick for a number of years, and it is great news for the airport, and of course our passengers, that they are launching a scheduled route to Paphos. I`m sure the route will prove to be extremely popular and on behalf of everyone at Gatwick I would like to wish them every success.