Letter:Struggles of this independent airline hark back to the 1960s
It is with real sadness that I read about the continuing struggle for survival of the airline Flybe.
My feelings go out to all the staff, having been employed by two large independent airlines in the 1960s, both of which went to the wall I know what they must be feeling.
In the 1960s that great airline British Eagle International Airlines, which had to fight many battles for survival, sadly succumbed as a result of Government dislike of independent airlines.
Also the state airlines battled to rid the UK of independent airlines in many devious ways. The trade unions of the day had a great dislike of the independent companies.
Why, you may well ask? As far as British Eagle and Freddie Laker's airlines went it was because they could show the state organisations how to please the passengers.
By giving excellent service and going the extra mile. It was these companies that made it possible for the freedom in the skies as we know it today.
The relationship with our ex-passengers is constantly recognised. Even 45 years later judgingby the correspondence I receive as the Eagle Group archivist.
A Shropshire Star article says the British Airlines Pilots Association calls upon the Government to play their part by reducing the impact of air passenger duty.
Well, every power to their elbow but sadly I fear the Government, as it has done down the years, will not listen.
In November 1968 they let just over 2,000 staff at Eagle go to the wall with all the experience and aviation knowledge they had. They didn't even consider the impact on the economy as a result of these airlines.
I suppose we must accept the Government's negative attitude that also flows over into local councils. Just think of the Shropshire Link bus service and how they dealt with the passengers of that service. No proper consultation or concern.
Eric Tarrant, Fauls Green
