Airline Flybe wins second green award

[October 27th 2008]

Regional airline Flybe has won another green award, the 2008 Brussels Airport Environmental Award.

The award is in recognition of Flybe’s commitment to reduce CO2 emissions by flying the most modern aircraft. The airline, which has its headquarters at Exeter airport, has invested £3 billion in a new fleet of aircraft. It says by the end of 2009 its fleet will be one of the youngest and most fuel efficient in the world.

Flybe has decided to base its short haul fleet on two types of aircraft, the Bombardier Q400 and Embraer 195. The latter is one of the latest aircraft available and is said to set new standards for operating costs, fuel efficiency, environmental performance and its comfortable 2x2 seat configuration.

“We’re honoured to receive this award from Brussels Airport that recognises Flybe’s environmental credentials,” says Flybe chief commercial officer, Mike Rutter.

“Our $3bn investment into a dual type, state-of-the-art environmentally sensitive fleet and the launch of the world’s first and only ecolabel for the aviation industry, have both contributed to Flybe taking an industry lead and making a significant contribution in this area,” Rutter continues.

Last month Flybe also won the ‘Special Merit for Commitment to the Environment’ Award at the Budgie Awards 2008.

Now the airline, which claims to be the largest and most successful regional airline in Europe, is asking other airlines to follow its lead.

“Flybe urges other airlines to adopt a responsible attitude to climate change and accept that human activity, including aviation, is having an impact on the environment. By investing time and money into initiatives like new and more efficient fleets, as well as eco-labelling, the aviation industry can do more,” Rutter believes.

Flybe’s boss is challenging other airlines to become more environmentally aware. “We are again throwing down the gauntlet and hope that the global recognition we’ve just received will finally succeed in spurring others into action,” states Rutter.

Written by: Nick Purdom

The widest choice and best prices on Airport Parking in the UK when you book with Holiday Extras