Flybe, Europe’s largest and most successful regional low cost airline, is reporting an unprecedented last minute demand for flights to Spain and France. Sales to both countries over the upcoming Bank Holiday are 10% up on last year as desperate bedraggled Brits determine to escape to enjoy some fun in some summer sun.
The airline, gearing up for one of its busiest ever Bank Holiday weekends, has already reported early record demand for regional UK travel with traditional holiday routes, such as those to and from the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and Scotland, amongst its most popular routes. As a result, Flybe’s forecasts an overall 11% increase in passenger numbers for this summer over 2007, boosted by the additional 10% increase in sales this year over last for the four-days over the Bank Holiday period alone.
However, the last minute demand for flights to Spain, France and Portugal –specifically from Exeter and Southampton International Airports - has already far surpassed that experienced in past years, suggesting that Brits have finally had enough of the rain-soaked holidays and are now determined to pull out all the stops in an attempt to finally enjoy some summer sun.
Mike Rutter, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer says: “We’ve never experienced quite such a last minute rush for seats. However, it’s good to see that passengers are recognising and reaping the benefits of the savings to be made through booking with us. We operate three times more domestic routes than any other airline with affordable travel from 34 UK departure points, 49 routes of which are to traditional ‘sun’ destinations.
“It is clear that holidaymakers have indeed re-thought their travel plans this year and, by voting with their feet, continue to make informed choices about their travel options. “
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