According to Edith Bowman, Radio 1's Scottish DJ, British Airways' new route from Edinburgh to Ibiza is set to be a number one hit with the locals.

Flights, which commenced on May 23, operate on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, giving sun-seekers the option of a short break or a longer stay on one of the Mediterranean's most popular islands.

Photographed at Edinburgh airport as the first aircraft was about to leave, Edith said: "This is great news for people trying to get out to the island this summer. Being able to fly direct gives Scottish holidaymakers maximum time on holiday."

To celebrate the start of the route, Edith has also put together her 'TOP 10 MUST-HAVE ITEMS FOR IBIZA':

1) First things first - sun cream. Don't take for granted the strength and damage the sun can do to you. Get a good separate face SPF too.

2) Great bikini (or swimming trunks!) An essential - and go for something that has colour!

3) Denim shorts. They are such a versatile item that can work great to throw on to go to the beach or dress up for going out.

4) iPod or MP3. Always essential to make a few great playlists on there too for a trip to Ibiza. One for clubbing, one for getting ready and then a nice chilled out daytime vibe.

5) Good pair of shades is a must. I normally take a few pairs as I seem to almost always lose them. I'm sure there is a secret sunglasses mountain somewhere.

6) Hats. I love to take a few hats with me. Great for shade if you are on the beach or maybe go for a hike or boat trip.

7) Books. Holidays and sunshine for me provide a great opportunity to get through that pile of books I never seem to find the time to read.

8) Berocca. I think it's fair to say there might be a night out or two in Ibiza. Have one of these when you get in and you will wake up brighter and breezier than you expect.

9) Clothes wise it's a great opportunity to experiment I think. I feel more confident in the sun with a bit of a tan so that can be reflected in what I pack. Cute little summer dresses and a great silky jumpsuit will do you wonders in this environment. Those type of things can be worn with both a stylish flat sandal or a fun heel.

10) Last but by no means least a camera. Phones are great and easy for capturing those fun silly moments but I like to take my proper camera to try and explore and capture the people and landscape of this beautiful island.

The British Airways Edinburgh – Ibiza service will run through the summer until early August. Fares start from £65 one way (hand baggage only) inclusive of all taxes and charges.

Richard Tams, British Airways' head of UK and Ireland sales and marketing said: "Ibiza is one of the most popular destinations for Scottish holidaymakers, with tens of thousands of Scots travelling to the beautiful Balearic island every year.

"This new service will offer holidaymakers the opportunity to fly direct from Edinburgh on a scheduled British Airways service with all the advantages of flying with a full-service carrier, including free on-line check-in and seat selection 24 hours before departure and complimentary food and drink on board.

"We look forward to welcoming existing British Airways customers - and those new to the airline – on board this exciting new route."

Three of the best British Airways Holidays deals are:

Stay eight nights at the two star Anfora Playa, from £429 per person for travel in June and July including flights from Edinburgh and breakfast. Based on two people sharing. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0844 493 0758.

Stay eight nights at the four star Torre del Mar, from £749 per person, for travel in June including flights from Edinburgh and breakfast. Based on two people sharing. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0844 493 0758.

Stay eight nights at the five star Aguas de Ibiza, from £1, 299 per person, for travel in June and July including flights from Edinburgh and breakfast. Based on two people sharing. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0844 493 0758.

Ends

May 26, 2014

For further information please contact press officer Victoria Madden in London on 07789 614422 or our Scottish press officer Denny Macgee on 07803 031648.

Note to editors:

The new Edinburgh – Ibiza service will operate Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from May 23 until August 8, 2014

Operated by an Airbus A320 with 162 seats, the flight times are:

BA8990 dep. Edinburgh Wed/Fri/Sun 10.35pm; arr. Ibiza 2.35am (following day)

BA8991 dep. Ibiza Thurs/Sat/Mon 3.35am arr. Edinburgh 5.40am

For reservations visit ba.com or call 0844 493 0758