Speculation that British Airways World Cargo would leave Stansted to operate from Kent International Airport at Manston near Ramsgate is finally over.

After months of rumour in the industry, KIA chief executive Matt Clarke said this afternoon that the bid for the BA contract has failed although he stressed other opportunities for the former Battle of Britain airfield are being pursued.

He said: “Like any business that bids for a new contract and is unsuccessful, we are obviously disappointed with this news. However, this negotiation was only one of several opportunities we have been pursuing and we are pleased with the level of interest shown by carriers in operating at KIA.

“We are committed to attracting further freight operators to the airport and ensuring the successful return of scheduled passenger services to a range of destinations in line with the development proposals outlined in our draft master plan.

“The fact that Kent International was considered alongside Stansted shows how far its reputation in the industry has progressed since Infratil acquired it in 2005 and this bodes well for future business.

"We have now established a solid base of regular freight customers and tonnage has bounced back after the temporary reduction associated with the administration of MK airlines.

"Last week’s total of 812 tonnes was one of the highest weekly volumes witnessed under our ownership and we expect to break records in the coming weeks.

“We would like to thank Thanet council and the local community for their support in our efforts to secure the new business. We have received a great deal of support from our neighbours and stakeholders and it has been heartening to see the clear recognition in Thanet that growth at the airport will bring with it employment and opportunity to local people.

“We are now able to confirm that the operator was British Airways World Cargo and that they have informed us that they will remain at Stansted.”