Flybe Name Kevin Keegan Aircraft

Flybe have announced the launch of their Kevin Keegan registered aircraft, coded G-KKEV. The Bombardier Q400 aircraft has been named to pay tribute to the manager of Newcastle United and sports an image of him alongwith his name on the main fuselage.

Mr. Keegan unveiled the aircraft at Newcastle Airport which also saw the Chief Commercial Officer of Flybe - Mike Rutter attend the event as well as other guests. The reason for the naming of the aircraft is to celebrate the services Mr. Keegan has paid to Newcastle United and cements his popularity amongst the rsidents of the Tyneside area.

Mr. Keegan, speaking at the launch of the aircraft said;

"Newcastle has always been a special place for me and, where my career is concerned, the fans and the city have all given me so much so I’m naturally absolutely thrilled that Flybe is also honouring them with this unique aircraft. The North East is a football-mad region and it’s a good feeling to know local people will now be able to fly to London on an aircraft dedicated to Newcastle United!"

Mike Rutter Flybe's Chief Commercial Officer also commented on the event by saying;

"Naming one of our aircraft after Newcastle legend, Kevin Keegan, was always a matter of when, not if! We are naturally thrilled that Kevin is here today to do the honours by officially unveiling this specially branded aircraft. It’s Flybe own small contribution to not only honouring one of Europe’s most well-known sporting heroes and an icon to the people of Newcastle but also in recognising Newcastle as a key part of the Flybe network. Dedicating an aircraft seemed the most appropriate tribute and, as of this afternoon, ‘King Kev’ will be join active service as one of the prime players on our Newcastle to London Gatwick route." 

Published by: Jon Vickery