Airlines Stobart Air to operate BA CityFlyer routes from London-City

The agreement between British Airways CityFlyer and Stobartair sees Stobart Air to provide the aircraft, insurance, crew and maintenance to BA over the course of the ACMI agreement. However, the flights will be performed under the BA CityFlyer brand. It is therefore expected, that the two E190 aircraft will receive a BA CityFlyer livery.

British Airways’ General Manager for Commercial and Customer, Luke Hayhoe, said: “We are looking forward to working with Stobart Air within this new significant lease agreement. The relationship will ensure we continue to provide punctual and reliable services for our customers from the London City Airport hub.”

Over the last month, the Stobart Air has invested a total of €36 million in its fleet to now operate routes form London-City Airport under the brand of British Airways CityFlyer. While also operating for Aer Lingus and Flybe, BA CityFlyer will become Stobart Air´s third airline partner.

Recently, the airline invested in two Embraer E190 regional aircraft by signing a three-year lease agreement with aircraft leasing company Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC).

Managing Director of Stobart Air, Graeme Buchanan commented: “Due to the continued and consistent growth of our airline, we are investing in our fleet and our people to deliver on our current growth strategy.”

To satisfy the additional demand, Stobart Air intends to add up to 40 new people to its team. The airline seeks to recruit 10 captains and first officers, as well as 30 cabin crew employees.

Stobart Air operates flights under the Aer Lingus Regional brand as part of a franchise agreement. The carrier furthermore operates ACMI flights for Flybe on routes between the Isle of Man and London Southend Airport.

“As a regional partner to leading airlines, we constantly review our business operations and our network to position us for opportunities with key partners from the most popular cities and routes across Ireland, the UK and beyond," Buchanan added.

For 2018, Stobart Air seeks to carry 2 million passengers, which would represent a 17% passenger increase compared to last year´s figures.