Flybe, Europe’s largest regional low cost airline, today begins operating flights between Inverness and Exeter, Manchester and Southampton in the continued roll-out of its 2008 summer schedule. Flights start from only £24.99 and are available for booking now at www.flybe.com.

Inverness - Exeter

·         Fares from £32.99 one way including taxes and charges

·         Flights operate daily

Inverness - Manchester

·         Fares from £24.99 one way including taxes and charges

·         Flights operate twice daily

Inverness - Southampton

·         Fares from £45.99 one way including taxes and charges

·         Flights operate daily

Not only does Flybe’s service offer the most affordable fares between these key cities but both leisure and business passengers can also benefit from the many added value innovations that Flybe offers as an industry leader.

The airline’s generous Rewards4all frequent flyer loyalty programme offers everyone who travels with Flybe the ability to earn points that are redeemable against future flights. Furthermore, those signing up for Flybe’s new Spend & Fly MasterCard will – upon their first retail transaction no matter what the value -automatically receive one free return flight anywhere on the Flybe network. What’s even better news is that the credit card is also integrated with the Rewards4all scheme.

In recent years, Flybe has invested more than $3-billion in new aircraft to make its fleet one of the youngest and most environmentally sensitive in the world. These environmental credentials came to the fore in March 2007 when Flybe pioneered the world’s only eco-labelling initiative for the aviation industry.

Mike Rutter, Chief Commercial Officer Flybe, says: “We’re really excited about the start of our new routes from Inverness. It’s a win-win for everyone! Not only can customers take advantage of the most affordable fares by choosing to fly with us on the strategically important routes but, by taking advantage of the Flybe credit card and Rewards4all programme, they can also quickly earn points towards free flights.”

Inglis Lyon, managing director of Highlands and Islands Airports adds: “The launch of Flybe’s new services represents further investment on the airline’s part in connecting the Highlands with the rest of the UK. We expect the new services to be popular with both business and leisure travellers and look forward to them contributing to significant growth at Inverness this year.”

Concludes Mr Rutter: “Underlining all of this is Flybe’s commitment to bringing affordable travel to the regions and people are advised to book now to ensure the best possible fares on what – according to ticket sales – are already proving to be highly popular routes. ”