VLM to introduce jets in route expansion bid
VLM Airlines is to use jet aircraft for the first time with a 92-seat BAe 146-300 entering service next month.
The aircraft will be deployed on the London City Airport-Rotterdam route from April 16.
The carrier is assessing the feasibility of introducing jet services on a further six routes from London City Airport, while 20 more destinations, all over 500km from London City, are also being evaluated.
The jet’s arrival will release some Fokker 50 capacity from its London City to Rotterdam route, allowing VLM Airlines to increase frequencies on other routes. The airline currently operates a fleet of 19 Fokker 50 aircraft, and will add a further two this year.
The BAe 146 is being introduced to enable the airline to increase capacity on one of its busiest routes, where it will operate alongside Fokker 50 aircraft.
The airline will maintain 10 return flights each weekday between London City and Rotterdam, with four to be operated by the BAe 146. The airline carried over 130,000 passengers on the route in 2006, and estimates that it will carry around 190,000 in 2007.
Performance of the BAe 146 will be evaluated during the year.
“If it integrates successfully into the carrier’s operation as expected, VLM Airlines will consider introducing additional BAe 146 aircraft on other high-density routes in its network,” a statement said.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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