Flybe to take on Virgin branding

Monday 08 July 2019

One of the Channel Islands’ key flight providers is to operate under Virgin branding, it has been confirmed, as a lifeline takeover process was finalised.

The European Commission formally approved Connect Airways’ acquisition of Flybe, Stobart Air and Propius on Friday afternoon, securing the airline’s future following financial difficulties.

Mark Anderson has now been appointed as CEO of the new Connect Airways. The group said that he would work with leadership teams from Flybe – which links Guernsey with the UK, as well as operating a franchise agreement with Blue Islands – to grow the airline’s regional offering.

Pictured: The merger to establish Connect Airways also involves the Stobart Group.

Announcing the successful merger, a statement from Connect Airways explained that it hoped to enhance the experience of Flybe customers by bringing it in line with the Virgin brand, which it added it will start operating under “in due course”.

New CEO Mr Anderson commented: “On behalf of Connect Airways, I couldn’t be more excited by the opportunity we have to build a strong platform in the UK and to grow our franchise flying operation in Ireland. Our whole team is focused on redefining the experience for our customers, as we rediscover the excitement and passion of being Europe’s largest regional airline.”

Connect Airways’ Chairman, Lucien Farrell, added: “Today is an important day as Connect Airways takes full control of Flybe, bringing the team together with Stobart Air. Under Mark’s leadership, the company has the opportunity to create a world-class offering for customers, combining a highly successful franchise flying business with Europe’s largest regional airline. I wish Mark and the team every success.”

Pictured: Connect Airways CEO, Mark Anderson.

Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, explained that he was “excited to build on the successful partnership Virgin Atlantic has enjoyed with Flybe – and how we can enhance the experience for our mutual customers, once Connect Airways joins the Virgin family and operates under its new brand.”