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18/02/2019
Travel Chaos As Flybmi Collapses
Hundreds of passengers have been left in chaos after Flybmi announced it was filing for administration.
The airline, which serves the City of Derry Airport, cancelled all of its scheduled flights with effect from Saturday 16 February.
British Midland Regional Limited, which operates as Flybmi, said the decision was due to increased fuel prices, carbon costs and challenges surrounding Brexit.
The City of Derry Airport issued the following advice for those scheduled to fly in the coming days:
• Direct flybmi booking- contact card issuer to seek a refund.
• Travel agent/partner airline booking- contact the provider for advice.
• Those with travel insurance should see if they are eligible to claim for cancelled flights.
SDLP Councillor Martin Reilly expressed regret that the L'Derry airport has lost its only route to London as a result of the closure.
He commented: "This route was regularly used and heavily relied upon by many in the North West. The loss of this flight, and therefore the vital connection between Derry and London, will be extremely damaging for many businesses.
"It will not come as a shock to anyone that Flybmi are citing Brexit as the cause of filing for administration. The SDLP would hope that the loss of this vital service will focus the minds of Brexiteer MP's, both here in the North and elsewhere, advocating for Brexit no matter the cost.
"Councillor officers and airport officials are continuing to work to urgently find a replacement airline to service the PSO Derry to Stansted route and also efforts continue to deliver route development to other parts of England."
(JG/CM)
The airline, which serves the City of Derry Airport, cancelled all of its scheduled flights with effect from Saturday 16 February.
British Midland Regional Limited, which operates as Flybmi, said the decision was due to increased fuel prices, carbon costs and challenges surrounding Brexit.
The City of Derry Airport issued the following advice for those scheduled to fly in the coming days:
• Direct flybmi booking- contact card issuer to seek a refund.
• Travel agent/partner airline booking- contact the provider for advice.
• Those with travel insurance should see if they are eligible to claim for cancelled flights.
SDLP Councillor Martin Reilly expressed regret that the L'Derry airport has lost its only route to London as a result of the closure.
He commented: "This route was regularly used and heavily relied upon by many in the North West. The loss of this flight, and therefore the vital connection between Derry and London, will be extremely damaging for many businesses.
"It will not come as a shock to anyone that Flybmi are citing Brexit as the cause of filing for administration. The SDLP would hope that the loss of this vital service will focus the minds of Brexiteer MP's, both here in the North and elsewhere, advocating for Brexit no matter the cost.
"Councillor officers and airport officials are continuing to work to urgently find a replacement airline to service the PSO Derry to Stansted route and also efforts continue to deliver route development to other parts of England."
(JG/CM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
