THE Aer Arann name is set to disappear as the Irish airline plans to change its corporate mantle to Stobart Air.
The airline’s new name comes from the Stobart Group, a British transport company best known for its distinctive Eddie Stobart trucks.
The company is the largest shareholder in the Irish carrier, buying its first shareholding in Aer Arann in 2010.
Stobart Air said it aims to become a specialist in franchise or contract flying for major European airlines and to double its passenger numbers within five years.
Sean Brogan, Stobart Air’s interim CEO said: “Today we operate 27 routes across Ireland, the UK and France, with over 1.2 million annual passengers. Changing the corporate name is the next step in achieving our ambition to further expand our operations.”
Aer Arann has announced that this is the conclusion of the first phase of the airline’s ‘new beginning’ strategy.
The airline will continue to operate under the Aer Lingus Regional brand as part of its franchise agreement with Aer Lingus.
Stobart Air’s Irish operations will continue to be based at Northwood in Santry, next to Dublin Airport.
Phase two of its strategy will focus on expanding its operations with London Southend Airport.
