French Blue unveils plan to launch first French low cost long haul operation by Sep-2016

Group Dubreuil announced (18-Mar-2016) details of its launch plans for French Blue, the first French low cost long-haul carrier.

• Launch date: 15-Sep-2016;
• Base: Paris Orly-Sud;
• Initial destinations: Punta Cana (Sep-2016), Reunion and Mauritius (Jun-2017);
• Start of ticket reservations: 07-Jun-2016;
• Fleet: First A330-300 scheduled for delivery on 26-Jun-2016. Additional A330-300 to follow in 2017. Two A350-900s to be delivered in 2018;
• Aircraft configuration: 378 seats in two classes:
• • 28 'Premium Blue' seats with 91 cm seat pitch, 30 cm HD IFE touch screen and central console;
  • 350 'Eco Blue' seats with 81 cm seat pitch, leather and 25 cm HD IFE touch screen;
• Fare categories:
• • 'Basic': Lowest price category, with 12 kg luggage allowance;
  • 'Smart': Middle price category, with 23 kg luggage allowance, food and snacks and seat selection;
  • 'Premium': Premium Blue seating, all services complimentary;
• Workforce: 400 employees within first two years. [more - original PR - French]