Flybe

Flybe (www.flybe.com) operates an extensive network of more than 180 routes across the UK and Europe. Offering scheduled low cost flights to some of Europe's most popular destinations, the Exeter-based airline carried more than seven million passengers in 2013.

About Flybe

Flybe is a regional airline based at Exeter International Airport in Devon. Serving 65 airports throughout Europe, it is the continent's largest regional airline. A public company owned by the Flybe Group, the airline employs approximately 2,600 people. In addition to Flybe, the Flybe Group includes engineering and maintenance service provider Flybe Aviation Services. It also includes European partner airline Flybe Nordic and the Flybe Training Academy, which delivers engineering and flight crew training.

The low cost airline operates bases across the UK, the largest of which is Birmingham International Airport. Manchester Airport also serves as a hub for the airline, while other large bases are also found at Belfast City Airport and Southampton Airport. Flybe's call sign is "Jersey", while its IATA airline designator is BE and its ICAO code is BEE. As of March 2014, the airline's fleet features 70 planes consisting of Bombardier Dash 8 Q400, Embraer 175 and Embraer 195 aircraft.

History

Flybe began operating as Jersey European Airways in 1979. Beginning with regional services from Jersey, the airline merged with Blackpool-based airline Spacegrand in 1985 following the Walkersteel Group's purchase of Jersey European Airways in 1983. Jersey European Airways linked Guernsey and Jersey with London Gatwick in 1991 and grew steadily during the decade. In 1993, the airline was the first in the UK to offer two classes on domestic flights with the introduction of its business class. The airline rebranded itself as British European (BE) in 2000. By then, it was the third-largest scheduled airline in the UK.

As British European, the airline turned toward a low cost business model. With this shift in 2002, the carrier became Flybe. As a low cost airline, Flybe modernised its fleet and services. The 2000s saw the airline purchase new Q400 turboprop aircraft and Embraer 195 jets. In 2006, Flybe acquired BA Connect from British Airways to become the largest regional airline in Europe. The airline also entered into a franchise agreement with Scottish airline Loganair in 2008. By 2010, Flybe began trading on the London Stock Exchange, entered into a codeshare partnership with Air France, and signed an agreement for new Embraer 175 aircraft. Flybe purchased Finncomm, Finland's largest domestic airline, to form Flybe Nordic in 2011. The new airline is a joint venture with Finnair and operates routes on behalf of Finnair and Flybe.

Destinations

Flybe provides flights to destinations in the UK, Ireland and Europe. Main gateways in the UK include Birmingham, Exeter, Manchester, Newcastle, Southampton, Belfast City, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. The airline also operates flights from Cardiff in Wales, Guernsey, Isle of Man and Jersey.

In addition to the UK and Ireland, Flybe flies to airports in Austria, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland. Through Flybe Nordic, connections are possible to Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Estonia. Flybe also has codeshare agreements with Air France, British Airways, Finnair, KLM and Etihad Airways, offering passengers connections to destinations around the world.

Classes of Service

Flybe operates aircraft with one class of service. Passengers have the option to purchase Economy Plus tickets, which provide travellers with a complimentary snack and drink on board. Economy Plus passengers also have access to Flybe Executive Lounges, free advance seat selection and extra legroom seat selection, and priority check-in. Economy class passengers are able to purchase food and drinks on all Flybe flights.

Head Office Address

Flybe
Jack Walker House
Exeter International Airport
Devon
EX5 2HL