It appears that regional airline Flybe (BE/BEE) is in the process of entering administration with numerous reports of Flybe aircraft being parked on remote stands and being blocked in by airport vehicles.
Flybe has also cancelled flights from airports including Birmingham were passengers were told that their flights would not go ahead and that they won’t be flying tomorrow either.
Flybe has been asked to comment on the current status which could leave thousands of passengers stranded across Europe and around 2000 people without jobs.
At least one aircraft has been impounded by Glasgow Airport which Flybe claims was down to a “miscommunication” with Ground handlers.
We have unconfirmed reports that Manchester Airport has refused to refuel two Flybe aircraft.
Another Flybe Dash 8 G-ECOT has been impounded at Manchester Airport and also G-ECOC at Cardiff Airport.
An official announcement is expected to made after the last aircraft lands at around 11 pm tonight but sources close to Flybe has told us “the games up”.
Flybe franchisee Blue Island Airways has released a statement saying it is “saddened by the closure of Flybe” adding that it will still be operating.
On their website, Blue Island Airways said “Blue Islands services will continue to operate, following the closure of Flybe. Passengers with bookings for travel on Blue Islands operated services are advised to check-in on time at the airport.
“If you already have a booking for tomorrow 05 March 2020, please check in on time. It will be possible to book any available seats on Blue Islands operated services at the airport. Those seeking to book travel are asked to attend the airport and enquire of availability and flight information there. Sale of all new seats on these services for tomorrow will be flat rated at £50 one way (inclusive of baggage) until such time as Blue Islands have re-established full functionality of its dormant dynamic booking tools, which is expected within the forthcoming days (at which point further announcements will be made).
“Blue Islands is saddened by the closure of Flybe. Our thoughts are with the staff, passengers, industry colleagues and wider stakeholders of the business affected at this difficult time.
“We wish to thank all of our passengers and airport partners for their patience and support during this transitional period.”
This is a breaking news story and will be updated as more information becomes available.