Best Time to Travel to Kiev

This week bmi launches a new five-times weekly service between London Heathrow and the capital of Ukraine, Kiev; in addition to a second daily flight to Tel Aviv. Kiev is a new route for bmi and offers travellers the opportunity to experience a destination with a difference.

Kiev is one of Europe's lesser known and explored cities. Just over three hours away from London, the city boasts stunning tree-lined boulevards, chic cafes and boutiques. The city is also home to key cultural attractions including the St.Sophia Cathedral, a Byzantium landmark, the architecture and grandeur of which was celebrated in a recent exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Founded in the 5th century as a trading post, little is documented about Kiev's earliest history. Kiev is said to derive from the name of Kyi, one of four legendary founders of the city (brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv and sister Lybid). Little known facts about Kiev include the fact that Kiev is listed as one of the greenest cities in the world by the United Nations and boasts over 60 parks and green spaces. In recent years, the Ukrainian spelling Kyiv has been internationally recognised and in 2008 the city competed for a spot on the international version of the board game Monopoly. Kiev was a finalist as European City of Culture for 2010.

Connecting business and leisure travellers to the vibrant city of Kiev, bmi offers a market-leading Business Class service on the route, with comfortable leather seats and 50" leg room, 16 inches greater than competitors. With great value Economy fares from just £224 return and Business Class fares from £649 return there has never been a better time to travel to Kiev with bmi.

All flights operate from London Heathrow Terminal 1 – the home of bmi. In addition to benefits including online check-in, customers will also be able to take advantage of Diamond Club, the UK's most generous frequent flyer programme, and bmi's Company Rewards programme for SMEs. Diamond Club destinations miles can be spent on flights with Star Alliance member airlines, hotel accommodation and on a range of gifts and treats.

Complimentary Chauffeur Drive is available for customers travelling on fully-flexible Business Class fares, offering more convenience and hassle-free travel. Up to four free transfers can be taken per flight with the service available at both ends of the route, with Silver E-Class Mercedes Benz (or equivalent vehicles) providing luxurious carriage to and from the airports.

This announcement follows a series of market leading initiatives that has seen bmi become the first airline to abolish fuel surcharges on all flights to UK and European destinations. bmi was the first British airline to trial the OnAir service offering travellers access to inflight text messages and email and the first airline to offer paperless boarding on all its domestic routes out of London Heathrow.