ROYAL MAIL is to reshape its air distribution network in the latest stage of the complete restructuring of the way mail is moved around the UK. Royal Mail currently uses 39 flights each week night, from 24 airports, to distribute 6.6% of the daily mailbag of 82m items across the country. Under a new arrangement it will use larger aircraft but half the number of services each week night, and operating from just 19 airports. The current network is operated by eight airlines but all services under the new model, which will distribute 8% of all mail, are intended to be run by an alliance between Channel Express and Titan Airways, encompassing BenAir for Highland and Islands routes. This is subject to successful completion of negotiations and will be implemented over a 12 month phased programme beginning next month. http://www.royalmail.com