FLYBE
has further cemented its transformation into a low-cost airline with a £518
million order for 17 Bombardier Q400 aircraft.
The
deal will enable Flybe to reduce its fleet to just two aircraft type and help
reduce operating costs.
The
order, which also includes options for 20 more aircraft, will see seven Dash 8s
and four Bombardier regional jets phased out.
Managing
director Jim French said: “The Q400 is delivering fantastically low
operating costs at Flybe, a benefit which we are passing directly on to our
passengers with low fares as we expand our European network.”
Four Q400s will be delivered this year with the
remaining 13 being delivered in stages until 2008.