New MD predicts bright future for Cardiff Airport

The recently appointed managing director of Cardiff Airport has said he believes the transport hub has "tremendous long-term prospects".

Patrick Duffy, who officially took up his role on February 1st, said that he was thrilled to have been appointed and was excited about working with a team which can "share in the benefits of a strong international airport".

Mr Duffy was appointed by airport operator TBI, which also owns Belfast Int. Airport.

Carlos del Rio, chief executive of TBI, seconded Mr Duffy's prediction of Cardiff's future, saying that it welcomed a record 2.1 million passengers in 2007.

"Patrick will take the airport forward in a rapidly changing marketplace, with the objective of meeting the travelling needs and aspirations of Wales and the west," he concluded.

Earlier this week, Cardiff Airport launched a new website which will campaign for the introduction of more direct flights to international destinations for business travellers moving in and out of Wales.