Flybe to cut 300 staff to create ‘leaner’ business

By ALASTAIR DALTON
Published on 23/01/2013 08:27

LOSS-MAKING airline Flybe is to shed 300 - one in ten of its staff - as part of a “turnaround plan” announced today in an attempt to return to profit.

The carrier, which describes itself as Europe’s largest regional airline, said it hoped the £35 million cuts plan would return it to the black in 2013-14.

The job losses will include one in five management posts, to create a “leaner, more focused business.

Flybe said it did not “currently envisage any significant changes to the number of UK bases or its route network at this stage” but they would be reviewed.

The first part of the two-part plan could also involve some activities being subcontracted to other companies.

The moves come as Berwickshire-born chief executive Jim French prepares to move to become chairman.