Air traffic in the UK is soaring to record levels, according to National Air Traffic Services (Nats).

Last year more than two million flights were handled, creating a new UK record. Nats had previously attempted to account for expected increases in flight numbers by launching a search for 'air traffic controllers of the future' early in 2006. Many such trainees are now nearing the end of their 12 month training periods, and are expected to boost the UK controller workforce over the coming months.

Nats reported that the number of flights to destinations such as Ireland, Italy, Germany, France, Spain and other European destinations increased by 16.2 per cent last year, largely due to competition from budget airlines.

Nevertheless, transatlantic flights crossing the UK rose by 5.4 per cent.

The "strongest demand" at a single UK airport was seen at Farnborough in Hampshire, where traffic grew by 22.5 per cent.