Maastricht Airlines postpones first flight to the 1st of May
19-Mar-2013 Maastricht Airlines, The Netherlands' newest airline, will postpone its 1st flight to the 1st of May 2013. This due to the late delivery of the first Fokker 50 aircraft, which has a knock-on effect and delays the Airline Operators Certificate (AOC).
Hamid Kerboua (CEO Maastricht Airlines) explains: "the process to get an AOC is very complex. Receiving your 1st aircraft in time is a very crucial aspect, as without this the process can not be completed. Due to the 4 weeks delay in delivery of the 1st aircraft, the other processes have been delayed too. We have looked at alternative solutions, but these did not guarantee a good service for our guests. In yesterday's Management Meeting we have decided to go for the most safe solution, and start operations on the 1st of May with our own fleet."
Passengers already booked on the flights between 25 March and 30 April will be informed about the cancelations and will have the choice to change their booking free of charge or to receive a full refund. As compensation we are offering a free ticket for every cancelled passenger on a future flight of choice.
"We are aware we have to disappoint the passengers that already have booked. We are really sorry, however we have to do this. Actually we have no choice. We hope, by informing everyone in time, we can minimise the disruption", says Kerboua.