Source: ATW Daily News Author: 06/17/2008
Subject Concerned: Airlines
UK-based Thomsonfly and First Choice Airways will begin operating jointly under the name Thomson Airways from May 1, 2009.
The rebranding of the two leisure carriers follows the merger of the tourism division of TUI AG and First Choice Holidays last fall.
Changes will be phased in gradually with rebranding work on the fleet expected to be completed over the next two years.
"Our aim is to build on the very best from these two award-winning airlines that share a very strong drive to provide a truly exceptional customer experience. By incorporating both airlines under one name, we will now operate 65 aircraft to over 80 destinations from 21 airports in the UK," said Thomson Airways MD Chris Browne, who currently is MD of First Choice Airways.
Thomsonfly and First Choice Airways have been operating under one UK CAA Air Operator's Certificate since May 1 and will merge formally on that date next year.
Thomson Airways will be European launch customer for the 787.