A flight to Gatwick was cancelled shortly before it was due to depart on Friday afternoon (November 15) after a Flybe first officer was told he was going to lose his job.

Passengers have told Manx Radio the Captain – who was willing to fly and tried to re-organise other flights - explained the news to them as they waited to board the flight in the departure lounge at Ronaldsway.

It’s understood the pilot told some travellers he was too upset to carry on after hearing news he was being made redundant.

On Friday, airline Flybe announced it will shut its Isle of Man base next March with the loss of 49 jobs.

Speaking on Mandate earlier this morning, Chief Minister Allan Bell says he hopes to meet local staff affected.

Although he admits it could be difficult to persuade the airline to reconsider its position.
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