Hapag-Lloyd Express begin services from Tyneside in 2005

The comments come after the latest budget airline announced an expansion of services to Newcastle Airport.

German-based Hapag-Lloyd Express (HLX) is adding Cologne, Bonn and Munich to its existing service to Hanover.

The destination marketing agency Newcastle Gateshead Initiative, says the move proves the region is becoming more popular with foreign travellers.

Alastair Balls, chairman of Newcastle Gateshead Initiative, said: "The news of new low-cost air services from German destinations is extremely positive for the local tourism industry.

"Our international marketing campaigns have succeeded in raising the profile of the area as a vibrant, cultural city break destination.

"As a result people from all over Europe are travelling here for short breaks and these new low cost routes will help to increase our accessibility and popularity."

The airline will start the new routes from March 2005.

Leisure destination

Ryanair and EasyJet already operate successful services from the recently-expanded Newcastle International Airport.

Sue McClellan, marketing manager at the airport, said: " Our low-cost flights are extremely popular and are a major source of growth for the airport.

"Germany is an important business and leisure destination, but it is also a significant market for inbound tourism."

Wolfgang Kurth, HLX's chief executive, added: "We are using our sound commercial base as a springboard for growth, combining an increase in flight frequency with the development of new, lucrative markets."

A new �7m terminal was recently opened at Newcastle Airport.

Passenger numbers for 2004 are expected to reach close to five million and 10 million by 2016.

By 2016, it is expected the airport will support up to 18,300 jobs in the region.