ScotAirways explains Air France Citjet franchise
10.09.07
As two more scheduled services under the ScotAirways banner at London City Airport transferred to franchise partner Air France Cityjet last week, the airline told abtn.co.uk why it had taken the decision to make the switch - that the move would allow it to compete with larger carriers.
Flights from Dundee and Edinburgh to London City, formerly operated under the ScotAirways brand, started under an Air France code last week. During the coming months the aircraft used on the routes will be painted in the Cityjet for Air France livery and cabin interiors will gradually be refitted with leather seats. ScotAirways crew will also wear CityJet for Air France uniform and will offer CityJet service in two classes.
ScotAirways commercial director, Jerry Froggett, explained to abtn the thinking behind the transition. He said: 'We have operated these routes for a number of years and been very successful. But we feel there is an opportunity to take them forward and put them under the distribution power of Air France.
'Edinburgh is a competitive route with British Airways for example and while we have made a very good fist of that, the benefits of having a global network with Air France provides a lot.' He added that ScotAirways had 'successfully traded blows' with BA, especially in the corporate traffic field, but found it harder to compete with large airline attractions such as its frequent flyer programme.
ScotAirways passengers will now be able to join Air France's Flying Blue frequent flyer programme, while eligible clients at Edinburgh airport will have access to the lounge. The schedule will operate on a similar basis to ScotAirways' previous offering, with seven daily rotations from Edinburgh and four from Dundee, plus a reduced weekend service.
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