EasyJet cuts flights out of Newcastle

Aug 5 2010 by Adam Jupp, The Journal

A BUDGET airline is scrapping routes and reducing the number of aircraft it operates from the region's biggest airport.

EasyJet is axing its winter services from Newcastle to Murcia and Rome, as well as lowering the frequency of flights to a host of other destinations.

As a result, it will now only base three airplanes on Tyneside, compared to the current five, which will lead to eight fewer pilots working in the region.

The airline has also confirmed it will only operate three aircraft on its summer routes next year. Airport bosses say the reductions are offset by the fact other companies are simultaneously bolstering the services they provide from Newcastle.

Low-cost rival Jet2.com recently announced it will start flying to Toulouse, Alicante and Faro, as well as bringing back services to Krakow, Poland, and Prague, in the Czech Republic.

EasyJet UK communications manager Sarah McIntyre said: “EasyJet can confirm that it will be reducing the number of aircraft based in Newcastle from five to three for the winter schedule and expect this number to remain the same for summer 2011.

“This is as a result of an ongoing review of all routes across the network and adjusting in accordance to customer demand. There will be no impact on cabin crew or first officers, however, we expect a small reduction in the number of captains that operate out of Newcastle.

“Those impacted will be offered internal transfers to other bases around our network and, as we wish to retain our talent, we are also considering other options such as part-time working.”