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Former RAF pilot to take over as Flybe chief operating officer

A former senior RAF fighter pilot is taking over as chief operating officer of Flybe.

Sir Timothy (Timo) Anderson is replacing current COO Luke Farajallah who is to leave the regional airline on October 31 to enable a smooth handover period.

Sir Timothy will join Flybe as an employee from August 1 and will support the business on a part time basis pending his appointment as COO from October 15.

He has been a non-executive director on the Flybe for four years and has chaired the airline’s safety and security committee.

Sir Timothy will stand down from the board on July 31 to enable him to prepare to take up the new executive appointment.

A fighter pilot by profession, he rose to become assistant chief of air staff in the Ministry of Defence, responsible for the RAF’s strategy.

Flybe chief executive Christine Ourmieres-Widener said: “I am delighted that Timo has agreed to join our executive team. His wealth of experience in aviation, logistics and safety will be invaluable to us, building on his past four years on the board.

“He brings exceptional leadership, management skills, cost discipline and tremendous drive that will be key for us to deliver operational excellence.

“I would like to thank Luke Farajallah for his hard work and enormous contribution over the last three years and wish him well for the future.”

Sir Timothy added: “Over the last four years or more, I have been continually impressed by the quality, commitment and ambition of Flybe’s employees.

“The company provides a vital service that ensures quick and affordable connectivity across the UK’s regions and beyond, part of a strong foundation for business and an essential communication network for our society more broadly.

“I am delighted to be able to transition to a role where I can build on my predecessor’s successes and play a bigger part in ensuring that the company delivers on its considerable potential for its customers, investors and employees.”

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