Airlines IAG interested in Flybe purchase

The future of Flybe remains uncertain. After the carrier announced this month, that it will search for potential buyers, several airlines have indicated interest for a possible takeover. According to aviation news, IAG now has also interest in the UK-airline.

Virgin Atlantic, Stobart Group, EasyJet and even Ryanair have been connected with a potential buy previously. However, apart from Virgin Atlantic, all airlines have already denied their interest.

In recent years, Flybe has struggled with its finances. In 2016/17, the airline lost GBP26.7 million net. Over this course, the airline is currently working on reducing the aircraft fleet in order to cut costs. That is why Flybe announced in November, that it seeks to remove its Embraer E195s in order to bring the fleet size to 70 airframes by 2020.

With its existing slots in London – Heathrow, IAG could potentially strengthen the feeder-network for its group member British Airways. This could help the British flag-carrier to better utilize its long-haul aircraft. British Airways has recorded weaker growth over the past years and therefore implemented various cost-cutting measures, which often fell back on passenger´s flight experience.

Based in Exeter, England, Flybe operates as regional and international carrier. The fleet consists of ATR 42/72s, Bombardier Dash 8-400s and Embraer 175s & 195s. Flybe operates 216 routes between 18 European countries. Over 81 destinations are being served.

International Airlines Group (IAG) is a multinational airline holding company, which was founded in January 2011. Headquarters have been installed at London and Madrid. Subsidiary airlines are Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, LEVEL and Vueling. Further subsidiary companies are Anisec Luftfahrt, IAG Cargo and Avios Group.

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