REPORTS have emerged that German airline Germanwings has pulled out of Cardiff Airport, just seven months after establishing its flagship route to Dusseldorf.

It is the only direct route between Wales’ national airport and Germany and was hoped it would trigger growth in the number of German tourists visiting Wales. Unless a new carrier is found the route will be closed.

Commenting on the news, regional AM Andrew RT Davies said: “This is extremely worrying news for the Welsh Government owned airport, particularly coming so soon after the recent withdrawal of flights to Glasgow.

“It is also deeply concerning that Germanwings has cut its losses so quickly, having only established the route to Germany seven months ago.

“From the very beginning we have questioned the wisdom of Welsh Labour’s decision to nationalise the airport at huge cost to the taxpayer. Labour Ministers must act quickly to shore up flagging confidence and to attract much needed new routes.”