Maxjet delays Washington launch

Business-class airline Maxjet Airways has postponed the launch of its Stansted-Washington route until April 3, blaming delays refitting its aircraft.

The airline, which started services between Stansted and New York last November, had hoped to launch four times a week to Washington from March 17.

Chief executive Gary Rogliano dismissed industry speculation the delayed route launch was because the airline is struggling to sell seats.

“We will have forward loads of 45%-50% on the new route and are recording loads of more than 50% in March and April for the existing Stansted-New York route,” Rogliano said.

“This refit of the aircraft is just like renovating a house. We¹ve had to strip out the floors, the bathrooms, the walls and have run 10 days over ­ but it¹s better to get it right.”

When the service eventually launches next month, it will operate five times a week instead of four.