Manchester Airport involved in 'rescue'

Low-cost airline Flybe has thanked Manchester Airport for its part in "rescuing" some 20,000 stranded passengers.

Euromanx collapsed on May 9th, leading to some 20,000 passengers being left at their destinations with no way of getting home.

Flybe flew the stranded travellers to their final destinations at no extra charge, while regular airport charges were waived by Manchester.

The airline said that this "swift and coordinated action" shows that there is no need for a government bonding scheme protecting against airline insolvency.

Mike Rutter, Flybe's chief commercial officer, said: "Stepping in with a full, free and comprehensive rescue package, Flybe have been able to rescue the travel plans of thousands of passengers.

"I'd also like to pay special thanks to Manchester Airport who have worked closely with us since Euromanx's demise."

Mr Rutter said the industry is "capable of keeping its own house" if an airline goes under and said a government bond on tickets to cover this eventuality would be "yet another tax grab".