Iberia's Madrid-Gibraltar flight welcomed

The first flight between Madrid and Gibraltar in 17 years, operated by Iberia, has been welcomed by minister for Europe Geoff Hoon.

Commenting on the Iberia flight, which took place on December 16th from Madrid Barajas Airport and will continue to fly at regularly scheduled times, Mr Hoon noted the advantages for local people.

"I warmly welcome the start of regular scheduled air services between Gibraltar and Madrid for the first time since 1979," he said.

"This is a tangible sign of progress being made under the Cordoba Trilateral Forum agreements - progress that will bring real benefits to the people of Gibraltar."

The last flight between the two locations took place on April 1st 1979 and was operated by British Airways. The service was cancelled for business reasons.

Both Madrid and Gibraltar are popular destinations for holidaymakers, with the Rock of Gibraltar being a famous landmark and tourist attraction.

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