The small town of Zilina in Slovakia, near to the Czech and Polish border, is home to a major European engine plant for Korean-based international car maker Kia Motors.

So far, Kia Motors, two European Champions League football teams and an international football team have taken advantage of Cello Aviation's BAe146 aircraft to avoid road or rail transfers by flying directly into Zilina. Now the Birmingham-based operator hopes to build on this business with its ability to transport 46 passengers with generous leg room and a hold capable of taking three tonnes of cargo from anywhere in Europe.

Cello has also been cleared to operate from Sion in Switzerland in the heart of the Valais Alps, despite the airport's steep approach and take-off requirements.