I travelled aboard the RTM-MAN this evening and it was an E175 operation [G-FBJH]. Arrived at MAN well ahead of schedule ... the timetable is based upon FK50 ops.
Outbound yesterday morning was quite creative. Dash 8-400 [G-JECI] operated a combined Hannover and Rotterdam schedule MAN-HAJ-RTM-MAN. Whilst this solution served to avoid cancellation of MAN-RTM-MAN in the absence of the originally scheduled VLM Fokker 50, about half a dozen characters gave the crew a really hard time whingeing about the change. One fellow was still bellowing down his mobile phone with the aircraft well into the taxy-out at MAN with cabin crew beseeching him to switch it off. He did so just in time. Special mention to the cabin crew concerned for remaining calm, professional and cheerful throughout what must have been a difficult flight for them.
Slight delay at HAJ, as baggage handlers appeared unaware that this was a combined flight and offloaded RTM baggage along with that for HAJ. Affected bags had to be rescreened before being loaded again. Meanwhile, cabin crew adeptly handled HAJ-MAN passengers who were bemused to be faced by free-seating.
Good to see FlyBe going the extra mile to keep the MAN-RTM route served. It is a pity that a handful of passengers weren't more appreciative. Professional performance by the crew on the day was a credit to FlyBe. And one of those cabin attendants was on duty again today on the RTM-MAN, called in off standby. Still cheerful! One to consider for 'employee of the month', Mr Hammad? Does FlyBe have such a programme?
Well done, crew. Don't let the whingers wear you down.