BA dashes airport's freight plans

The airport has been given the go-ahead to increase flights

Negotiations to bring British Airways World Cargo to Kent International Airport have failed.

It had been hoped the move would bring more freight flights to Manston but it is to stay at Stansted, officials said.

Chief executive, Matt Clarke, said he was disappointed but said there had been interest from other carriers.

"We are committed to attracting further freight operators... and ensuring the return of scheduled passenger services to a range of destinations," he said.

"The fact that Kent International was considered alongside Stansted shows how far its reputation in the industry has progressed since Infratil acquired it in 2005 and this bodes well for future business."

The airport was recently given the go-ahead by the district council to increase the number of morning and night flights in preparation for its expansion.