Comment: Welcome move helps carve firm a niche in tough climate

Flybe has had to be versatile and resilient in recent years, ready to respond to changing market conditions and customer preferences.

But this has sometimes resulted in a degree of confusion for travellers and travel agents over whether Flybe is a “no-frills” airline or a “full-service” carrier.

With this initiative, the airline is carving a more recognisable niche in a changing aviation environment.

It is eliminating the charge levied when payment is made by debit card, and limiting the charge applied to credit card payment. These changes will benefit the vast majority of its customers – a positive step.

The rapid development of no-frills airlines has changed the traditional air travel model – particularly for business travellers – beyond recognition.

It has led to the deconstruction of what was understood to be included in a ticket – pre-allocated seat, cabin and hold-baggage allowances, and food and drinks.

Purely no-frills airlines sell each part of the service separately, applying additional charges on a “menu selection” basis – mostly to leisure travellers – and the varying levels of these charges have often been controversial. However, having a mix of business and leisure travel customers, Flybe has been faced with the need to service both markets, and the airline’s latest initiative can only be viewed positively.

Following Flybe’s introduction of its new Embraer jet aircraft and the expansion of its Manchester hub, augmenting its strong schedule of services from Scotland, this initiative consolidates its position as a serious full-service, business-friendly airline – with a low-cost option available to those who want one. It’s a welcome development for Scotland’s travellers and travel providers.

• Kevin Thom is president of the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association.