LOW-cost business-class airline MAXjet is to launch a second transatlantic service from Stansted Airport in the New Year.

LOW-cost business-class airline MAXjet is to launch a second transatlantic service from Stansted Airport in the New Year.

MAXjet, which began flights between Stansted and New York's John F Kennedy Airport at the beginning of last month, is to introduce a new route to Washington Dulles towards the end of February next year.

From the middle of February, the airline is also to introduce Saturday flights on the Stansted-JKF route, making it a daily service.

MAXjet said the increased frequency on the JKF route and the new five day a week service to Washington Dulles were being introduced in response to consistently high load factors and customer demand since its launch of services out of Stansted on November 2.

Chief executive Gary Rogliano said yesterday: “Our load factor levels and customer reaction to our product has been overwhelmingly positive and encouraging.

“People are thanking me everyday, via email or in person, for creating an airline that finally makes sense for consumers.”

Mr Rogliano is among a host of business leaders to have given their backing to BAA Stansted's plans for a second runway, the options for which were launched for public consultation last week.

“Business leaders across London and the South East have been calling for the development of new routes, and in particular long haul connections from Stansted, and we have taken the opportunity to capture that demand and offer long haul business connections at some 50-70% less than the standard market cost,” he said.

“Stansted is firmly established as a gateway to Europe and our intention is to develop MAXjet routes from the airport and establish links between the low-cost airlines of Europe with those in the USA.”

Other figures to back the expansion plan include Sir Digby Jones, director general of the CBI, John Clayton, chief executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce; Alison Webster, executive director of the Learning Skills Council Essex; and David Marlow, chief executive of the East of England Development Agency

Stansted managing director, Terry Morgan, said: “I've been delighted at the messages of support we have already received.

“The airport is clearly recognised as a major asset to the East of England, London and the wider South-East, and it is very heartening to know that we have such backing, particularly from those who themselves are out there making things happen for the good of the local and regional economy.”