Despite making cut backs to offset the increased cost of fuel, the carrier is still seeking to expand its operations.

Daily flights to the seaport of Kaliningrad were introduced last June and have proved popular with passengers travelling not only to Kaliningrad, but to other cities in Europe.

From KD Avia's Kaliningrad hub, connecting flights run to destinations including Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

Commenting on the carrier's decision to maintain flights from Gatwick over winter,
UK Sales manager Loreta Durrell told Alternative Airlines: "This is great news, Kaliningrad is our hub for onward flights to eleven major Russian cites including Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

"The trade to all Russian cities is rising and the daily flight lets us assist the businessman who needs flexibility in his travel arrangements."

The carrier recently announced new flights to Yekaterinburg as part of its ongoing expansion plans. Services to this latest destination will start in October and include flights to the city from Barcelona, Berlin, London, Kiev and Paris, as well as seven other European airports.