Airline takes over Exeter to Manchester route

Blue Islands has stepped in, following the collapse of Flybe

Airline Blue Islands has announced the launch of multiple daily flights between Exeter and Manchester.

It has picked up the route following the collapse of Flybe last week.

Rob Veron, CEO Blue Islands said, “We understand the importance of regional connectivity, with 120,000 passengers flying between Exeter and Manchester in 2019 we have reacted quickly to maintain these vital connections which are essential for the economic and social wellbeing of the South West, following the sad closure of Flybe.

“We are pleased to complement Saturday’s announcement of the continuation of flights between Exeter and Jersey with our Exeter – Manchester services. We look forward to providing key UK regional infrastructure in this first phase of activity from Exeter Airport as we continue to sustainably develop our route network in key markets.”

Matt Roach, Managing Director at Exeter Airport said, “With routes already secured to Jersey and now with the addition of multiple daily services from Exeter to Manchester, we are delighted that Blue Islands has been able to provide this key infrastructure to the South West, and so quickly after the disruptions which followed Flybe’s collapse last week.”

Today [12 March] is also the first day that flights return from Exeter to Guernsey, which until last week were operated by Flybe.

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon said, “Keeping Devon’s quickest connection with Manchester is great news for the South West. I’d like to thank Blue Islands for stepping in and providing this popular route to protect jobs and connectivity.”