SDLP Jobs and Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin has expressed her concern after airline Flybe entered administration on Saturday.
Ms McLaughlin expressed her solidarity with staff at the airline, which operates a number of routes from Belfast City Airport.
She urged customers with flights booked through Flybe to contact the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the Consumer Council for advice and information.
Said the Foyle MLA: “My immediate thoughts are with the Flybe staff, including those at Belfast City Airport, who have lost their jobs today as a result of Flybe entering administration.
“This announcement at short notice will also cause significant disruption for those with flights booked through the airline and I would encourage those affected to make alternative travel arrangements and seek advice from the relevant groups.
“Flybe operated ten flights from Belfast City and I welcome reports that the airport are already engaged in discussions with other airlines to continue the routes and minimise the impact on the airport.
“I would hope that where possible Flybe staff could be employed to facilitate these routes for the new airlines.
“When Flybe previously entered administration there were concerns expressed around the long-term viability of Belfast City Airport and I welcome that thanks to steps taken since that period that is no longer the case and the airport’s future is secure.
“I will be reaching out to the airport and the Flybe staff affected on behalf of the SDLP and we will do our best to offer help and advice to customers who had booked flights through the airline.”
