First aircraft arrives for new airline at Birmingham Airport

Flybe’s first turboprop aircraft has arrived at Birmingham Airport.

The De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 is being leased from regional aircraft leasing company Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC).

The aircraft will be one of twelve on lease from NAC with these NAC planes being some of the first to join Flybe’s planned fleet of 32 Dash 8-400 aircraft.

Dave Pflieger, CEO of Flybe Ltd, said: “We are extremely pleased to be partnering with NAC to take delivery of our first De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400.

“Environmental sustainability will be a key area of focus from day one for our company, and we plan to do everything possible to reduce our carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.

“To that end, Flybe’s entire fleet will be comprised of Dash 8-400 aircraft because it is an extremely fast turboprop-powered aircraft that can complete short journeys almost as quickly as a regional jet, but with lower CO2 emissions.”

The news follows the announcement of Flybe’s new headquarters and crew base at Birmingham Airport. More than 200 jobs will be created at the base, with 400 more expected across the rest of the UK in the next three years.

President of Nordic Aviation Capital, Norman Liu, said: “We are excited to be partnering with Flybe Ltd to help them as they create a strong new company that will build on a very respected and well-known brand. We look forward to seeing them grow and connect communities and regions across the UK and EU.”

Philippe Poutissou, vice president of sales and marketing for De Haviland Aircraft of Canada Limited said: “The Dash 8-400 aircraft’s attributes – including its low carbon and noise footprints, excellent passenger amenities and operational versatility – will be invaluable as Flybe Ltd builds its network to connect communities across the UK and the region.”

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