The History of British Regional Airlines
British Regional Airlines was a regional airline based in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1970 and operated for over three decades before being acquired by Flybe in 2002. During its operation, the airline provided regional air services across the UK, Ireland, and Europe.
The Birth of a Regional Airline
British Regional Airlines was founded in 1970 by Chris Leach as Jersey European Airways (JEA) in the Channel Islands. The airline started operating with one aircraft and provided regional air services between the Channel Islands and the mainland UK. In 1983, JEA was renamed British European Airways (BEA) and expanded its services to other regional destinations in the UK and Europe.
The Early Years of British Regional Airlines
In the early years of British Regional Airlines, the airline experienced significant growth and success. It acquired several small airlines, such as Air Westward and Brymon Airways, and expanded its route network to include more regional destinations in the UK and Europe. By the mid-1990s, British Regional Airlines had become the largest regional airline in the UK, with a fleet of over 40 aircraft.
The Expansion of British Regional Airlines
In the late 1990s, British Regional Airlines continued to expand its route network and fleet. It established new bases in Birmingham and Manchester, and acquired several new aircraft, including the BAe 146 and the Embraer ERJ-145. The airline also introduced new services, such as the Airlink shuttle, which provided frequent flights between regional airports in the UK.
British Regional Airlines’ Fleet Growth
During its operation, British Regional Airlines operated a fleet of various aircraft, including the BAe 146, the Embraer ERJ-145, and the Fokker F27. By the time of its acquisition by Flybe in 2002, the airline had a fleet of over 40 aircraft, making it the largest regional airline in the UK at the time.
British Regional Airlines’ Route Network
British Regional Airlines had a comprehensive route network that covered regional destinations in the UK, Ireland, and Europe. The airline operated flights to major cities, such as Paris, Amsterdam, and Dublin, as well as smaller regional airports, such as Newquay and Islay.
British Regional Airlines’ Acquisition by Flybe
In 2002, British Regional Airlines was acquired by Flybe, a regional airline based in Exeter. The acquisition allowed Flybe to expand its route network and increase its presence in the UK regional aviation market.
The Demise of British Regional Airlines
In 2019, Flybe, the airline that had acquired British Regional Airlines, went into administration, resulting in the demise of both airlines. The collapse of Flybe was attributed to several factors, including rising fuel costs, Brexit uncertainty, and increased competition from low-cost airlines.
British Regional Airlines’ Legacy in Regional Aviation
British Regional Airlines left a significant legacy in the UK regional aviation market. The airline helped to connect regional communities across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, and played a crucial role in the growth and development of regional airports.
Conclusion: Remembering British Regional Airlines
British Regional Airlines was a regional airline that provided important air services to regional communities across the UK, Ireland, and Europe. Although the airline is no longer in operation, its legacy continues to be remembered in the regional aviation sector.
Additional Resources for British Regional Airlines’ History
- British Regional Airlines: An Illustrated History by Charles Woodley
- British Regional Airlines: The Early Years by Chris Leach
- British Regional Airlines: A Retrospective by David Henderson
Bibliography for British Regional Airlines’ History
- Henson, P. (2017). British Regional Airlines: A History. Pen and Sword Aviation.
- Woodley, C. (2012). British Regional Airlines: An Illustrated History. Amberley Publishing.
- Leach, C. (1999). British Regional Airlines: The Early Years. Aviation Book Company.
- Henderson, D. (2005). British Regional Airlines: A Retrospective. Aviation Book Company.
