European regional carrier, VLM Airlines, has launched a direct service from Birmingham to the thriving commercial and tourist centre of Antwerp in Belgium. The inaugural flight was greeted with a water arch salute whilst VIP passengers were greeted by the Belgium ambassador to the United Kingdom, Guy Trouveroy. Trouveroy showed further support for the new service during an exchange of gifts between Antwerp-based goldsmith, Wim Meeussen, and Birmingham-based jewellery designer, Alice Stewart.