Flybe which was the UK’s largest regional airline which collapsed last year is to return to the skies next year.
The regional carrier will now be based in Birmingham with a new headquarters and will create 600 new jobs.
Flybe chief executive Dave Pflieger said, “We are thrilled to be partnering with Birmingham Airport (BHX), the City of Birmingham, and the Mayor of West Midlands to make BHX the location of our new headquarters and first crew base.
“It was an ideal choice for us due to its great people and highly skilled workforce, its central UK location, and the fact that Birmingham Airport is a global travel hub where local and connecting customers have access to over 150 worldwide destinations.”
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street said, “This is fantastic news for our region’s connectivity needs and it will bring with it some great new employment opportunities.
“Dave’s vast experience in managing start-up airlines and turnaround situations, coupled with the recovery of the Midlands’ economy post-Covid, means that Flybe’s return to the skies from Birmingham is a shot in the arm for our airport as well as West Midlands businesses and communities.
“We look forward to working with Dave and his team in preparation for next spring and to launch such a well-known brand here in Birmingham.”