Flybe just sent us this email:

We know it’s been a tough time for all air travellers over the last few weeks, and we thank you for your patience in these unprecedented times. However we have some breaking news that not only is a first amongst UK airlines but is wonderful news for any of you wondering whether you might be affected in the future.

We can confirm that with immediate effect Flybe will be the first airline in the UK to be able to fly within the new CAA-approved safe levels of volcanic ash.

The CAA called upon the industry to bring forward thoroughly researched proposals to safely improve the ability to fly in the vicinity of low level volcanic ash concentrations. Flybe worked closely with the Met Office, Bombardier and Pratt & Whitney our engine manufacturers in Canada to develop the proposals which have today been endorsed by the CAA. Flybe’s overriding concern is always safety, and these new rules arise from a proven process of safety management within the company and the industry which helps make air travel the safest form of public transport.

What does this actually mean for you our customers?

Well basically it means that we will be far less affected by any future ash clouds coming our way. Taking the last two days as an example, at Flybe we had to cancel 380 flights under the previous rules, the new rules we have just been given by the CAA mean we would have only have had to cancel 21. This would mean that less than 3% of our total programme would have been affected.

We thank the CAA and Met Office for their support in this work and look forward to working with them further to get the UK safely back on the move. We hope with these measures will mean you will once again feel confident in booking air travel.

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