Flybe announces major expansion as Gatwick becomes 14th base (press release)

Airline's 18 Dusseldorf flights a week create 33 new jobs

Flybe, Europe's largest and most successful regional airline, is today announcing a major expansion of its services with the news that London Gatwick is to become its 14^th base as a result of its new Dusseldorf service.

The new route, effective 22^nd June 2009, will operate three times a day weekdays, daily on Saturdays and twice daily on Sundays, providing passengers with a convenient and affordable service to this key German destination. Already the third largest slot-holder at London Gatwick, the new business-friendly schedule to the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia strengthens Flybe's commitment to growing its presence at the airport.

Flights can be booked from today at www.flybe.com with opening fares from £29.99 one way including taxes and airport charges available through 17^th April. Full schedule in Notes to Editors, below.

Flybe has grown rapidly at London Gatwick over the last 18 months, adding crucial business services such as Aberdeen, Newcastle and Newquay to the point where it is now a major player at the airport. 

Flybe's decision to create its 14th base, with 33 new jobs, reaffirms its ability to grow even in challenging economic times and means that Flybe will be operating nearly 500 flights a week from Gatwick in the summer of 2009.

Commenting on the decision, Mike Rutter, Flybe's Chief Commercial Officer said: "Flybe's major expansion at London Gatwick is a sign that we are now key players at the UK's second biggest airport. The initial basing of one aircraft with 33 new staff will make Gatwick one of our most important airports and our 14^th base. Flybe is gaining a reputation as an airline that bucks the trend in these challenging economic times and this announcement is a confident statement by the Flybe Board in our ability to continue our growth."

The airline recently opened its stylish new dedicated Executive Lounge at London Gatwick's South Terminal and its generous Rewards4all generous frequent flyer loyalty programme scheme offers anyone who travels with Flybe the ability to earn points that are redeemable against future flights.

Mr Rutter continued: "Dusseldorf has been a big success for Flybe out of Southampton, Manchester and Birmingham. We have big plans to grow further in Germany and this new route from Gatwick shows we mean business."