Flybe unveils the “The Matt Le Tissier”

Flybe, one of Europe’s leading low-cost airlines, has announced the launch of “The Matt Le Tissier”, a specially branded Q400 aircraft named in the Southampton legend’s honour.

The aircraft was unveiled today by Ian Taylor, General Manager Market Development, Flybe, at a special ceremony attended by Matt Le Tissier, Southampton FC Chairman Michael Wilde and former Saints manager and non-executive director, Lawrie McMenemy.

Also at the ceremony, held at Guernsey Airport, were: Matt Le Tissier’s family; His Excellency The Lieutenant Governor Vice Admiral Sir Fabian Mallon KBE; Geoffrey Rowland, The Bailiff Of Guernsey; Chairman of the Guernsey Football Association (GFA) Mr David Nussbaumer; and Vice Chairman of the GFA Mr Jeff Vidamour. The guests also included representatives of Guernsey Airport and Flybe.

The Saints star, who was born and grew up on Guernsey, is Flybe's Community Ambassador and works with airline in promoting Flybe's commitment to the community and grass roots football.

Speaking at the event, Matt Le Tissier said: “This really is a great honour for me. When Flybe approached me with the idea of naming an aircraft after me I was shocked but very flattered. It’s fitting that the inaugural flight will be between my real home of Guernsey and my spiritual home of Southampton. The fans in both places have been immensely supportive of me ever since I debuted against Tottenham 20 years ago and I’m genuinely touched to be receiving this honour.”

Ian Taylor, Flybe’s General Manager Market Development, added: “With our sponsorship of Southampton, the links between Matt, football and Flybe was so strong that we felt drawn to make our own contribution to one of our country’s sporting heroes and an icon to the people of Southampton and Guernsey. Dedicating an aircraft seemed the most appropriate tribute and from today “The Matt Le Tissier” will be in active service on the Southampton to Guernsey route and as part of the Flybe network throughout the UK and Europe.”

As an airline serving the UK regions and with a huge investment in football and the communities in which it serves, Flybe is proud of the initiatives that it supports throughout the UK, Ireland and continental Europe. Flybe is dedicated to Guernsey and this is consistently shown through its programme of community investment and providing efficient affordable travel to and from the Island.

Flybe‘s commitment to Guernsey not only provides frequent daily flights between Guernsey and Southampton but extends to Birmingham, Exeter and London Gatwick, providing the largest network available both in and out of the Island.