The Welsh government has confirmed the purchase of Cardiff Airport for £52 million.

According to the first minister of Wales Carwyn Jones, the aviation facility - which was previously owned by TBI - will be operated commercially and the government will remain at "arm's length" from the direct management of the site.

He added that a chief executive of the airport will be appointed in due course.

"Cardiff Airport is a vital gateway to Wales for business, tourists and general travellers alike. It is essential that its future is secured and that we develop high quality sustainable services," the first minister remarked.

Edwina Hart, minister for economy, science and transport, said the airport is a vital piece of infrastructure in south Wales.

Cardiff Airport has been struggling of late, with figures suggesting that more Welsh people actually flew from Bristol Airport in 2012 and mayor of the English city George Ferguson told the Bristol Post that it would be sensible for the two airports to find ways to work together more closely.