Ryanair launches direct city flights to Kaunas

DIRECT flights to the Lithuanian city of Kaunas are set to be unveiled by budget airline Ryanair today as it continues its expansion at Edinburgh Airport.

The low-cost carrier's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, is today expected to set out a host of new routes during announcements in the Capital and also at Prestwick Airport, where he will be joined by First Minister Alex Salmond.

Home to Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov's other club, Kaunas is also likely to host the Tartan Army when Scotland travel to play Lithuania in qualifiers for the 2012 European Championships.

Gordon Dewar, managing director of Edinburgh Airport, said: "We're delighted that Ryanair has chosen to add Kaunas to its existing 34 destinations, making Edinburgh better connected than ever. Given the recent Euro 2012 draw, I'm also sure that many football fans are noting this development with interest."