Four jobs are to go at Manston Airport in a cost-cutting programme amid speculation that a new service to New York is poised for take-off.

The airport, owned by New Zealand company Infratil, has been losing money on its operations and needed to cut costs to give it a more secure future.

Airport chiefs recently examined working patterns to see where cost savings could be made. This process and staff consultation has identified savings of more than £350,000 and the loss of four roles.

Charles Buchanan, airport chief executive, said: "As the airport strives to attract new business, it is important that the cost base is kept as low as possible and we reduce the airport's current operating losses.

"Increasing the attractiveness of the airport to potential new customers, both through low airport charges and flexible operating conditions, will be key to ensuring the business becomes a commercial success. As a result of the consultation the airport is now on a more sustainable footing for the future as we seek to grow the business."

The airport has attracted Flybe scheduled services to Edinburgh and Belfast but lost the Manchester service in April because of poor passenger numbers. Several holiday charter operations use the airport which earns substantial revenue from its freight operations.

Mr Buchanan has spoken to a number of airlines to try and attract more scheduled passenger services. A spokesman confirmed that talks have been held with representatives of a new airline that is considering introducing direct flights to New York.