Flybe’s web-search activity bucks industry slowdown

Flybe has reported a year on year increase in traffic to its website, flybe.com, over the first two weeks of January, despite recent data indicating the industry is experiencing a 42% slowdown overall in online flight searches.

Latest reports indicate that the industry overall is continuing to experience massive reductions in traditional New Year interest to book summer travel early in the year. However, buoyed by its extensive regional network and a number of ground-breaking initiatives that includes its innovative Book with Confidence Guarantee - quickly copied by both First Choice and Thomsons - and it’s Just Pay Taxes and Charges promotion, Flybe has bucked the websearch slowdown by delivering a 1% year on year increase in traffic to its website.

Mike Rutter, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer, comments: “The nation is facing unprecedented economic challenges. Passengers are clearly appreciating that Flybe is doing its bit to address these concerns by recognising that money is tight and that job insecurity is a crucial issue for many.”

“Our success in not only maintaining but increasing the volume of internet searches for flights on www.flybe.com is a reflection of travellers’ confidence in our position as Europe’s largest regional airline. We not only offer added value for money but also fly five times more domestic routes than any other airline. The Great British holiday seems to be back in fashion!”

“The innovative promotions we have introduced this year are undoubtedly having an impact on the many travellers who are continuing to search our website and booking with confidence. I would urge those who may be thinking twice about booking early and who may be tentative to commit to booking holidays, to take advantage of the best low cost fares available now with Flybe, especially those wanting to stay closer to home with holidays paid for in sterling and wanting a large choice of convenient regional destinations.”