The news that Flybe has entered administration is deeply concerning for all those operating within the tourism sector and in other areas of the economy. Our immediate thoughts are with those staff and travellers directly affected, and we hope that the routes are re-established as quickly as possible.
Air connectivity has been a key factor in Belfast’s tourism renaissance over the past two decades, providing affordable access in to Northern Ireland from a range of regional and international destinations. Flybe’s 14 routes provided a fifth of annual seat capacity into the region from our main market in Great Britain.
With over 1.7m visitors annually, tourism generates over £395m each year for the city economy, and supports 19,000 jobs, so it is imperative that industry and government work together to minimise the impact.
Belfast is still very much accessible from many airports in Great Britain, however to achieve our ambitious growth targets, the city and region need to see a continued uplift in air capacity.
We welcome today’s commitments from Belfast City Airport and both the NI Executive and UK Government to addressing the issue as a matter of urgency.
Visit Belfast will continue to seek solutions that will address and improve Northern Ireland’s connectivity issues and will continue to provide proactive support to the tourism industry, including conference organisers and those most immediately affected.