Manx2.com, the 'small airline with a big heart', celebrated its third birthday on Friday 24th July in true aviation style - in the atmospheric surroundings of its new hangar at Ronaldsway Airport!
The evening was attended by members of the Island's business and political communities, who enjoyed the stirring sounds of Rushen Silver Band.
Joined by Manx2.com Chairman Noel Hayes, Chief Minister, the Right Honourable Tony Brown MHK, gave a speech to the assembled guests before officially opening the hangar with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
The new hangar, which previously belonged to Manx Airlines and was briefly occupied by Flybe, features purpose-built offices and an on-Island maintenance facility.
The Chief Minister commended the airline's 'confidence and commitment during competitive and difficult economic times' and their 'vision to look to the future and build on their success'.
Mr Hayes commented 'I am delighted to be celebrating our third birthday with the launch of our new headquarters. This is particularly encouraging, especially in the current economic climate when, globally, air travel is on the decline'.
Mr Hayes, who grew up in the Orkneys, explained that he appreciates the need of a small Island community for good, reliable air links.
He told isleofman.com's Gavin Smith that, based on customer research, Manx2.com distinguishes itself from other airlines operating out of Ronaldsway with 'friendly service and punctuality - these consistently rate the highest'.
He went on to say 'The reason for our success is Manx2.com's commitment to customer service, our low fares and frequent flights, and this is where we differ from the big guys.
'We have taken routes in permanent decline, such as Blackpool, and doubled the number of people flying there, as well as opening up parts of the UK that have never been accessible from the Island by air.
'Our formula of year round, frequent flights to small airports with good road links and easy parking is one our customers really appreciate'.
Touching on the issue of the DHSS patient transfer contract, which Manx2.com lost to Flybe after completing a successful six-month period of service, Mr Hayes emphasised that, despite such setbacks, he was confident.
A combination of dedicated staff, loyal customers and 'Manx Viking grit', he said, would see the company through testing times, just as it has in the past when off-Island airlines waged aggresssive competition: 'There's far more to it than just the price you pay'.
At the heart of Manx2.com's future plans was, he said, the intention to expand and develop as a permanent fixture: 'Servicing the local community is our priority, focusing on tourism and regional business, possibly with route into Scotland in the near future'.
Mr Hayes concluded 'I look forward to many more years serving the people of the Isle of Man'.
Pictured: Manx2.com's Chairman Noel Hayes with Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK
