Flybe Goes Bust Again: Flights Grounded and Chaos Ensues
Flybe, the beleaguered regional airline, has gone into administration for the second time, leaving passengers stranded. The carrier operated scheduled flights from Belfast City and Heathrow to destinations across the UK, as well as Amsterdam and Geneva.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) broke the news at 4 a.m., urging travellers not to head to airports since all Flybe flights are now canceled.
Cancelled Flights and Scrambled Passengers
- Flights from Birmingham to Belfast, Geneva, Amsterdam, and Edinburgh are all axed.
- Passengers are told to arrange alternative travel via other airlines, rail, or coaches.
- The CAA is offering advice and info about refunds and travel insurance claims on their website.
Budget Airlines Step Up with Rescue Deals
Several airlines have launched special fares for stranded Flybe customers trying to get home or on with their journeys.
British Airways
One-way tickets start at just £50 (€60) plus taxes on select routes. BA will fly Flybe passengers between London and Belfast, Newcastle, or Amsterdam. Bookings can be made via the BA contact centre on 0344 493 0787.
Ryanair
Super-cheap fares from £29.99 launched to cover flights from Belfast to East Midlands, Manchester, London Stansted and more. These deals are available on Ryanair.com for travel starting Sunday 26 March 2023.
easyJet
Flybe customers can travel on domestic routes for £49 and international routes for £79, including a 15kg hold bag when presenting their Flybe booking reference. This offer runs until 10 February. Contact easyJet customer service:
- UK & elsewhere: +44 (0) 330 551 5151
- France: +33 (0) 9 7740 7770
- Netherlands: +31 (0) 20 794 6405
- Italy: +39 02 3206 8889
Rail Help for Grounded Flyers
Train firm LNER is also pitching in, offering free travel on 28 and 29 January for Flybe customers with cancelled flights. Passengers must show their cancelled ticket to qualify. More info at LNER.co.uk.
Flybe’s collapse has thrown thousands into travel chaos. Passengers should check the CAA website for the latest updates and refund advice.
