British Airways launched flights from London City to Salzburg on Friday (4 February). The twice weekly service, which is the first route to Austria from the east London airport, will operate on Friday and Saturday.

The airline will also fly to Chambery in the French Alps from Saturday (5 February) with this service operating up to four times per week.

London City’s head of aviation Anne Doyere said: “The upcoming relaxation in travel restrictions will undoubtedly unlock pent-up demand for a half-term holiday to the Alps and whether travelling with family or friends.

“London City provides the quickest, most convenient service in the London market. The less time passengers need to spend queueing at the airport, means more time on the slopes.”

BA also flies from the airport to Geneva five times per week, while Swiss offers three weekly flights from London City to Geneva.