Stobart Air €25 Million Investment To Create 60 New Jobs

by Liz Seyi Digital marketing manager

Stobart Air, the Irish airline that is responsible for operating Aer Lingus Regional services under a franchise agreement with Aer Lingus, has confirmed that it will invest €25 million into an expansion of the business that will also create 60 new jobs.

The company formerly known as Aer Arann said that it was looking for 24 pilots and 36 cabin crew. This would bring its total staff numbers to 570 people serving its 43 routes across Dublin, Cork, Kerry, Shannon and Donegal Airport.

It has a current fleet of 17 aircraft, but has said that it will add new jet aircraft.

“A significant milestone”

Stobart Air managing director Graeme Buchanan commented: “Today’s announcement commences the next phase of our plans to grow the airline further.

“The addition of jet aircraft to the fleet is a significant milestone. It allows us to fly more passengers which, given the recent announcement to expand our partnership with Flybe at London Southend Airport, has real value.

“The addition of 60 new people to our team is a direct response to the expansion of our fleet. Adding jet aircraft to our fleet presents our pilots with an exciting new career progression path and an added dimension to our overall recruitment efforts.”

Mr Buchanan has been immediately promoted to the position of managing director as part of the airline’s latest raft of changes, having previously been its Chief Financial Officer. He will report to Stobart Group deputy chief executive, Warwick Brady.

Part of a wider growth strategy

The investment and expansion into jet services form part of the airline’s new three-year growth strategy, following the breakdown of merger discussions with CityJet in December.

It comes as CityJet separately announces its own plans to hire new 10 trainee pilots to be deployed across its European bases. The airline said that the pilots would be trained in Oxford and Phoenix in the US.

Such announcements at both Stobart Air and CityJet are ones that are sure to excite many of those working with an Aviation Recruiter like TARCG to find their ideal next role in the sector. Our well-qualified and experienced aviation professionals can make all of the difference to your job search.