Flybe changes course on rewards with Avios switch

The Exeter-based airline will become part of the Avios reward points programme, which also features firms such as Shell, HSBC and InterContinental Hotels, from October 27.

The carrier, which serves around 35 UK airports, said the new partnership with Avios would replace Flybe’s existing Rewards4All programme, although these members can redeem their outstanding points within six months of yesterday’s announcement.

In June the airline celebrated its first profit in four years after it boosted passenger numbers and cut costs.

Chief executive Saad Hammad said: “This agreement represents a significant service enhancement for Flybe customers – a big step change that opens up a new world of reward possibilities.”

He added that there were over two million customers with billions of Avios points within 30 miles of a Flybe airport.

The group has regional bases in Belfast, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Manchester and Southampton. It also has a white label business with Finland’s Finnair, where it flies planes under the airline’s livery.

Flybe posted an annual pre-tax profit of £8.1m in the year to March 31, compared with a £41.1m loss in the previous 12 months.