Flybe is celebrating 35 years operating from George Best Belfast City Airport.
A celebratory reception was held in Belfast’s Grand Central Hotel yesterday (Monday, October 1).
Representatives from Flybe including the Chief Executive, Christine Ourmières-Widener; the Chief Commercial Officer, Roy Kinnear and Flybe’s Country Manager for Ireland, Ken Harrower, attended.
Originating as an air-taxi company owned by a family run steel company C Walker and Sons, Spacegrand Aviation as it was known then, made its first official flight to Belfast Harbour Airport from Blackpool in 1983.
A few months later Walkers Steel Group bought over Jersey European Airways and the airline began commercial activity from Belfast.
“We are extremely proud of our long association with Belfast City Airport and have been privileged to both serve our customers in Northern Ireland for over 35 years and employ over 200 local people at what is one of our top four UK bases,” added Mrs Ourmières-Widener.
Brian Ambrose, CEO at George Best Belfast City Airport, its relationship with Flybe dates back to when they began commercial operations in 1983.
“Together we have grown, offering passengers an ever-increasing flight network from a modern terminal with facilities aimed at delivering an airport experience that exceeds our passengers’ expectations.
“The economic impact of Flybe operating from Belfast City Airport cannot be underestimated both in terms of job creation and allowing business people and leisure travellers the opportunity to connect seamlessly with all parts of the UK,” he said.