Flybe launches franchise operation from Southend
Flybe has reached a five-year franchise agreement with Stobart Air which will see the latter launch six new routes from Southend Airport in partnership with Flybe.
From June 5, Stobart Air, which was previously called Aer Arann, will operate flights to Benelux destinations and Northern Europe with two 72-seat ATR aircraft in Flybe livery. Seats will be sold on Flybe.com from April 3.
In a statement, Flybe said it estimated the airline would carry 200,000 on the six routes in 2015. The franchise agreement has been structured to add more routes and more aircraft if required.
Flybe chief executive Saad Hammad said: "We are delighted to be extending the Flybe brand further into the South-East. Today’s news is also further evidence of our commitment to providing true regional connectivity across the UK and we look forward to unveiling a major programme of new base and route development over the coming months."
Flybe already operates a franchise with Loganair, which has 17 aircraft flying in its colours.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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