Flybe and Stobart Group form five-year franchising agreement

25th Mar 2014 08:40

Flybe and Stobart Air have reached an agreement on a five-year franchising deal at London Southend Airport.Stobart Air, which is part of Stobart Group, will operate new routes from London Southend Airport in partnership with Flybe from June 5th with two 72-seat aircraft in Flybe livery. The aircraft will fly to a variety of destinations, including Benelux and Northern Europe. Flybe said it predicts that passenger numbers on the six routes will increase to approximately 200,000 per annum in 2015.Saad Hammad, Chief Executive Officer of Flybe, commented that the group was "delighted to be extending the Flybe brand further into the South-East". "[This] 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."The franchise agreement has been structured to accommodate additional aircraft and routes if required.Andrew Tinkler, Chief Executive of Stobart Group, added: "This agreement represents an exciting expansion of our relationship with Flybe. London Southend Airport is an ideal access point for Flybe customers travelling to and from London and the South East and we look forward to welcoming them." NR