In a first for Wales, passengers will be able to fly directly from Cardiff to Cancun in Mexico and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

Thomsonfly (previously Britannia Airways), announced the new long-haul plus extra European destinations from Cardiff - a move which is expected to attract an extra half a million passengers a year.

The plan will also see extra Thomsonfly aircraft based at Cardiff.

In addition, Thomsonfly will be adding a flight to Orlando Sanford in Florida, increasing the number of Cardiff International's weekly Orlando flights from two to three. Meanwhile, Thomsonfly is adding new European destinations and increasing the frequency of its existing services from Cardiff.

New destinations from summer 2006 include Monastir, Tunisia; Bourgas and Varna in Bulgaria; and Crete. Frequencies to Malaga; Alicante; Palma; and Tenerife will be increased.New Thomsonfly destinations are also planned for the winter from Cardiff. Cardiff International Airport managing director Jon Horne said: "This is fabulous news for Wales and for the airport.

"We have worked hard to secure the long-haul routes against stiff competition from other UK Regional Airports.

"We are delighted that Thomsonfly chose Cardiff International for a major increase in European flights.

"The opening of the new rail link to Rhoose Cardiff International Airport station in June this year will give the airport's ambitious development programme a further boost." Thomson sales and marketing director Miles Morgan said: "With improving access through new rail and road links Cardiff International Airport will be able to realise its great potential."

Holidays to Mexico, Florida, the Caribbean, Bulgaria, Tunisia and Crete for 2006 fromCardiff International Airport are on sale now.

Customers can book via their local travel agent, on the web at www.thomson.co.uk or by telephoning 0870 550 2555.