Flybe has announced it has reached agreement with Stobart Air, a Stobart Group business, for a five year franchising agreement at London Southend Airport.

Under this new agreement, Stobart Air (formerly Aer Arann) will operate new routes from London Southend Airport in partnership with Flybe. 

Flybe has proven experience as a franchisor, most notably with Loganair who have 17 aircraft operating in Flybe colours.

The franchise operation will commence on June 5th with two 72 seat ATR aircraft in Flybe livery.

Tickets go on sale via Flybe.com on April 3rd to a mix of destinations in Benelux and Northern Europe.

It is estimated that passenger numbers on the six routes will increase to approximately 200,000 per annum in 2015.

The franchise agreement has been structured to accommodate additional aircraft and routes if required.

Saad Hammad, chief executive of Flybe, said: “We are delighted to be extending the Flybe brand further into the South-East. 

“Today’s news is also further evidence of our commitment to providing true regional connectivity across the UK and we look forward to unveiling a major programme of new base and route development over the coming months.”