Boss of Flybe parent firm sad over airline’s collapse
THE boss of Flybe’s parent company has spoken of his sadness at the airline’s collapse – and asked other business to help with job opportunities for staff.
Mark Anderson, chief executive officer at Connect Airways, issued a message via business social network LinkedIn in the wake of Flybe – which served Guernsey on a number of routes – failing earlier this month.
Connect Airways was created after a consortium, including Virgin Atlantic, Stobart and Cyrus Capital, bought Flybe after months of financial difficulties.
‘The last few days have been the saddest and most challenging in my professional life. I want to pay enormous tribute to my team, who have also made them the most humbling for me,’ said Mr Anderson.
Describing Flybe going into administration as ‘the end of a great business with a proud history’, he said more than 2,300 jobs in Exeter and many parts of the UK would be lost.
It was also a ‘cruel irony’ that the airline had been achieving record operating results and customer scores in recent months, although it was a testament to the ‘amazing team’ at Flybe.
Addressing his colleagues, the Connect CEO went on: ‘You have worked incredibly hard to turn the business around. I am so sorry that despite everyone’s best efforts, including offers of support from the government and others that, in the end, didn’t materialise, we find ourselves here.
‘I will work hard with business and local councils to help find opportunities for our team and support where I can.
‘I will always be extremely grateful for the resilience, hard work and sheer determination that our Flybe family demonstrated to try to secure our goal to become Europe’s most successful and loved regional airline.
‘Thank you for your incredible effort and good luck for the future. You deserve every success.’
He concluded, saying: ‘If you are able to support with job opportunities please go to #flybefamily or get in touch. I appreciate it.’
