Flybe 2.0 has announced that it has take delivery of its first aircraft, a Dash 8-400 aircraft. Flybe 2.0 is the revival of the original Flybe which suspended operations almost two years ago.
Flybe 2.0
The original Flybe was Europe’s biggest regional airline, and a firm fixture in the United Kingdom market. The airline was sorely missed by several airports and many communities. However, the airline’s brand and remaining assets were sold to an investment vehicle, and rumors of its revival have been circulating for many months.
First aircraft
The new Flybe has taken delivery of its first aircraft, a Dash 8-400 aircraft, which is the very same aircraft type used by the original Flybe. The original Flybe was the world’s largest Dash 8-400 operator, but Flybe 2.0 will start operations with one. The new Flybe will eventually have 32 aircraft in its fleet.
Dave Pflieger, CEO of Flybe Ltd, said:
We are extremely pleased to be partnering with NAC to take delivery of our first De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400. This is an exciting time for our team and our new airline, and we look forward to working with both NAC and De Havilland Canada as we launch and grow our fleet with more of these incredibly fast turboprop planes that are more eco-friendly than regional jets.
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The airline has leased its first aircraft from Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC). NAC will 12 Dash 8-400s to the carrier. The first aircraft was delivered to Birmingham Airport, which will be the airline’s new base. While it’s sad that the Flybe 2.0 will not return to its historic base of Exeter Airport in Devon, Birmingham makes a lot of sense in terms of regional connectivity.
Norman Liu, President of Nordic Aviation Capital, said:
We are excited to be partnering with Flybe Ltd to help them as they create a strong new company that will build on a very respected and well-known brand. We look forward to seeing them grow and connect communities and regions across the UK and EU.
Philippe Poutissou, Vice President Sales and Marketing, De Haviland Aircraft of Canada Limited, said:
De Havilland Canada is delighted to welcome the new Flybe Ltd to the Dash 8-400 family of operators, and to see the return of highly efficient regional air service to the communities it will serve. The Dash 8-400 aircraft’s attributes – including its low carbon and noise footprints, excellent passenger amenities and operational versatility – will be invaluable as Flybe Ltd builds its network to connect communities across the UK and the region.
Featured image by De Haviland
What do you think of Flybe 2.0? Do you think the airline will be able to succeed in the current environment? Let me know in the comments section below.
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