Unite: Flybe’s administration exposes the vulnerability of UK airline industry

Following the announcement today (Wednesday 4 March) that the airline Flybe has fallen into administration Unite National officer Oliver Richardson said: “Unite members and the entire staff at Flybe, will be feeling angry and confused about how and why the airline has been allowed to collapse.

“It is simply outrageous that the government has not learned the lessons following Monarch and Thomas Cook’s collapses, the much promised airline insolvency review has still not materialised.

“While other European countries are able to introduce measures to keep airlines flying when they enter administration, the UK remains unable or unwilling to do so.

"The Uk economy is highly dependent on a viable and supported regional airline and airport network. For central government not to support and nurture this, especially as we deal with the twin uncertainties of Covid-19 virus and Brexit, is unhelpful and irresponsible.

“Other major airlines have repeatedly said that they are ready and willing to organise flights on Flybe’s routes and for the sake of the passengers and communities that the airline served, the government must ensure that those commitments become reality.

“Unite will be providing advice and assistance to our members to help them at this highly difficult time.”