Flybe delivers a boost for Birmingham business

Flybe, Europe’s largest and most successful regional low cost airline, yesterday proudly marked the official introduction of its new Embraer 195 aircraft at Dusseldorf International Airport, the first time the environmentally sensitive aircraft has operated to and from Germany. The event highlighted this key business route and attracted significant trade and media interest.

The aircraft, that operates 46 flights a week on Flybe’s popular Dusseldorf to Birmingham service, was met by members of Flybe’s sales management team, accompanied by Dusseldorf Airport’s Head of Airlines Marketing, Mr Ulli Topp, who - with local VIPs and members of the corporate travel trade - celebrated its arrival. Colourful Brazilian dancers added a touch of South America to reflect manufacturer Embraer’s heritage, making the airport the hottest place to be in the city.

Mike Rutter, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer, commented: “We have invested $3bn into our new fleet of aircraft that will make it one of the youngest in the world by the end of 2009. The increasing popularity of our Birmingham to Dusseldorf service indicates that we are the champions of affordable travel. The route has proved to particularly important for business travellers and we’re proud to be able to support business connections between Dusseldorf and the Midlands with our flagship aircraft.

“We are the largest operator in the world of the new E195, an aircraft enjoyed especially by frequent travellers who enjoy the additional space afforded by our 2x2 seat configuration.”

The introduction of Flybe’s flagship aircraft, featuring comfortable 2x2 seat configuration, signifies the airline’s ongoing commitment to improving its customer offering. The combination of the Embraer’s excellent fuel efficiency coupled with one way fares from £37.99 including taxes and airport charges, is proof that Flybe is not only committed to its Midland and German passengers but also to offering flights at ‘low cost but not at any cost’.

Manufactured in Brazil, the Embraer 195 is one of the newest aircraft available on the market and is perfectly suited to operate in a short-haul regional environment. The aircraft sets beneficial new standards for operating costs, fuel efficiency, environmental performance and in-flight cabin services.

Stephen Hobday, Flybe’s Head of Sales addeds: “Flybe is unique in the low cost regional market in its support of the travel trade. We work closely with travel management companies on behalf of their corporate accounts to ensure that we offer the right product for their customers. The introduction of this new addition to our fleet is an exciting development which is sure to impress even the most discerning business traveller.”

For more information log on to Flybe.com/environment.