Airline chairman ‘shocked’

THE head of Manx2.com, a ‘virtual airline’, which outsources the ownership and operation of its flights, has spoken of his “terrible shock” following the horrific accident at Cork airport on one of its routes.

Noel Hayes, chairman of Isle of Man-based firm, said Manx2.com had never experienced anything like this in its five year history and the tragedy was a terrible shock.

Mr Hayes extended his deepest sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives and paid tribute to the emergency services in Cork who, he said, were “extremely quick and professional in their response”.

“In addition we are very grateful for the support provided by Cork Airport and Belfast City Airport. We will continue to do everything we can to help those affected in any way by this tragedy,” he said.

“We need to establish what happened this morning, and we will continue to work with the authorities throughout their investigation. Members from my team have been in Cork to liaise with the relevant authorities.”

“This has been a terrible day and our thoughts are, first and foremost, with the families of those who lost their lives, and those who were injured.”

The twice daily Belfast to Cork route on which yesterday’s accident occurred began operating less than six months ago, shortly after Aer Arann decided to withdraw its Belfast service after going into examinership.

The crash will come as a serious blow to the small airline which has been expanding its Irish operations and attempting to build up a reputation as an operator for business people.

Employing 60 staff and with a fleet of seven aircraft, Manx2calls itself a ‘virtual airline’, which outsources the ownership and operation of its flights. It sells flights and services from several airports in Britain and Ireland with bases in Belfast City, Blackpool, Cardiff and the Isle of Man and the flights.