Monarch - 3

[ATNotts]

Consolidation of Yorkshire & North East Midlands operations at DSA?

Has anyone read the reports in a travel industry paper that was linked a few posting back?

Monarch are strategically reviewing their business, reducing costs, increasing yields in an attempt to improve profitability (I paraphrase).

Moreover they are not going to chase growth.

If the EMA (and LBA IF they are shifting from there as well - which at this stage I might question) aircraft are to be reallocated to another base it isn't going to be a new base from which they have never had previous presence - that would be another bottomless pit of cash. It will be to one or more of the principal bases - MAN / BHX / LTN or LGW and I'm guessing that the airport managements at each airport have fingers crossed hoping it's theirs!!

[eye2eye5]

Bear in mind Mr Swaffield's initial comment that there are too many planes chasing too few customers. That would tend to indicate a reduction in fleet size as a simple reallocation would not address that fundamental issue. Are any aircraft leases due to expire?

[111KAB]

Agree with ATNotts and given that Monarch are emphasising that BHX is only 37 miles from EMA indicates that BHX may well get preference. Likewise if LBA goes the same way as EMA, I would have thought that MAN would benefit. LGW and LTN have the EasyJet price threat not really experienced at BHX/MAN - I recently booked a number of flights to Funchal (ZB fly from LGW and BHX) and the LGW ones were around half the price of the BHX ones (same dates etc) due to the EJ competition.

My only problem with the 'strategy review' is the statement that Monarch want to compete with the two big budget guys. I really do not see how they can (particularly with the 'hub' reduction) either on price or efficiency which are the key ingredients for the savvy/budget flyers - perhaps they would be better distancing themselves from the budget end by offering a Crown service. They could also do with appointing a decent publicity agency as their press releases often present a slightly negative image whereas with the right 'spin' the change in strategy could be seen as a lot more of a positive move.

[TartinTon]

Aren't 3 x B757 due to be retired at the end of the summer14?

[TartinTon]

Due to the Monarch model, the only way that they will be able to increase frequency AND timings on established routes will be to base aircraft overseas. I would expect to see aircraft based at all/some of AGP/ALC/FAO and PMI in S15

[Falcon666]

Looking at the local scene and putting two and two together, and probably coming up with five.
LTN is the home base for Monarch and Easyjet.
AENA are now running LTN and investing over £100 million in the Airport.
Presumably they have held discussions regarding continued growth with the based Airlines to ensure the investment in LTN will succeed hence the Easyjet decision to agree a new ten year deal.
AENA also run most of The Spanish Airports so what Tartin Ton is suggesting is a high probability for both Airlines should they wish to go that way.
There is obviously a lot going on behind the scenes so let's see!!

[2Planks]

They'll have to get a move on with the review - Jet2s' and Thomsons' LBA summer 15 programmes are on sale, and I suspect it won't be long before FRs pitches up.

[BCALBOY]

Sunday Times ,reporting 1000 jobs to go ,fleet reduction from 42 to 30 aircraft and all Charter and Longhaul flying to cease ,in an attempt to stem losses estimated at £60m this year.

[PPRuNe Pop]

Heads up! There are posts that are heading down the guessing game route. That must stop. It is important that only facts should be posted and NOT imaginary 'facts' and guesswork. People's lives can be affected by non-facts so please do not do it.

[runway08]

^Interesting fleet drop directly from 42 to 30, Isn't that the precise number of Max they are going to finalize a deal for if and when they get around to it?

[INeedTheFull90]

If the aim is to turn a profit and keep the operation in the black for the short and medium term, then would it not make sense to defer the arrival of the boeings. Changing your business model is one thing and there are significant costs involved in that, but completely switching the entire airline from one type to another almost (yes I know there are a couple of A330/757s) entirely just doesn't make sense to me. The A320 can't be that much more inefficient than the 737-MAX. If the own some of the fleet already and it is paid for the any fuel saving will likely be offset by the finance payments for an entire new fleet. It just doesn't make sense to me.

[ETOPS]

From todays Sunday Times..

MONARCH AIRLINES is to cut more than 1,000 jobs — about one-third of its staff — as part of a drastic overhaul to cut losses and woo new investors.

All charter and long-haul flights will be axed, and the aircraft fleet shrunk from 42 to 30.

The drastic plan has been drawn up by new chief executive Andrew Swaffield in an effort to restore the airline to profitability. Internal projections show the carrier is likely to lose about £60m this year.

The specialist American aviation advisory firm Seabury Capital is leading the hunt for new investors, with about a dozen financial players — private equity and other investment funds — in the frame.

One obstacle is Monarch’s pension black hole. A defined benefit scheme, closed to new members more than a decade ago, it still has a deficit of £158m. Talks have begun with trustees and the pensions regulator about a solution.

The 47-year-old airline is a stalwart of the British holiday scene, carrying 6m passengers a year to destinations in the Mediterranean.

It is headquartered at Luton airport and with its aircraft maintenance division and Cosmos tour-operator arm has 3,300 employees.

It is owned by Switzerland’s billionaire Mantegazza family. The Mantegazzas, who have regularly injected cash in recent years to make good losses, have accountant PwC standing by to take charge if a new investor is not found. Swaffield was recruited from British Airways’ parent company IAG to run the airline in April. He was promoted to chief executive of Monarch Group in July after the abrupt departure of executive chairman Iain Rawlinson.

Monarch declined to comment yesterday, but potential investors have been given an outline of Swaffield’s plan. He will ditch Monarch’s historic “hybrid” model, which saw it mix charter flying — one-off flights for tour operators — with scheduled services.

Charter flights will end and the company will become a budget carrier operating only scheduled flights.

Large cost cuts, to bring the airline’s overheads in line with those of big rival easyJet, are to be announced in the next few months.

Last week the airline said it would shut its base at East Midlands airport, and the base at Leeds/Bradford is also under review.

Swaffield and chairman Sir Roy McNulty — the Northern Irish businessman who has chaired the Civil Aviation Authority — hope to find new investors by Christmas. It is understood the Mantegazzas would be prepared to relinquish control if the right deal can be found.

The management are pursuing a “solvent” sale — they do not want to put the company into administration to ditch legacy costs, including the pension scheme.

Dean Street, a City investment banking boutique, is helping in the hunt for new funds, and KPMG, the accountant, has prepared an information pack for investors.

Industry experts say that, while the cost cuts are promising, Monarch will still struggle to compete against easyJet and Ryanair, the two titans of the low-cost airline world.

[Capetonian]

Industry experts say that, while the cost cuts are promising, Monarch will still struggle to compete against easyJet and Ryanair, the two titans of the low-cost airline world. I wonder if there's a hidden message in there, since at least 3 of the last 10 times I've flown Monarch, they've chartered from Titan Airways as they've had aircraft or crew rostering problems.

I wish them and their staff luck but this doesn't bode well.

[ManUtd1999]

aircraft fleet shrunk from 42 to 30.

Did they not increase the fleet size and number of bases just a couple of years ago to "increase economies of scale" :ugh:

[ATNotts]

Sunday Times ,reporting 1000 jobs to go ,fleet reduction from 42 to 30 aircraft and all Charter and Longhaul flying to cease ,in an attempt to stem losses estimated at £60m this year.

Again I ask, when Monarch is private company where does the Sunday Times get this information from, which is reporting as fact?

Is the CEO's office leaking - doubt it; are potential investors leaking - unlikely? Is the reporter reading press releases and threads such as this, putting 2 + 2 together and coming up with a number as likely to be 5 as 4? More likely.

As per PPRuNe Pop careless talk can cost jobs.

[Facelookbovvered]

I very much doubt that ill informed chitter chatter on here will have any effect on the prospect for jobs at Monarch or its bookings

The real damage comes from newspaper reports such as that in The Time's today, stating 1000's of jobs to be cut, these will not in my experience be dreamt up figures

[flybar]

Official response from Monarch:-
We are conducting a review of all our UK bases. The review of Leeds Bradford has not yet been completed. Our estimated time for completion is in the Autumn.

[Direct VTB]

David 1994 even if it is "fact" according to your sources. Why would you spout it on here before even their own personnel are in the know, just so you can have your 5 min of "fame"......

[Set 1013]

My thoughts go out to all at Monarch tonight. I speak with experience as I work for Flybe, It is not a nice time. Please take with a pinch of salt what you read on here. 99.9% of it will NOT be true and only galley FM speaking. I have friends who left Flybe for Monarch, I hope it works out for everybody there!

[MKY661]

The Sunday Times: Monarch Airlines to cut more than 1,000 jobs, shrink the fleet to reduce its losses and find a new investor | World Airline News (http://worldairlinenews.com/2014/08/18/the-sunday-times-monarch-airlines-to-cut-more-than-1000-jobs-shrink-the-fleet-to-reduce-its-losses-and-find-a-new-investor/)

[Buster the Bear]

No mention of any job cuts! The Monarch Group - Home (http://www.monarchholdingslimited.com/)

[compton3bravo]

Having being connected with the media over many years never ever believe what you read in the press as gospel. The old maxim stands - never let the facts get in the way of a good story! Bus alas I fear there is some truth in the Sunday Times piece.

[Buster the Bear]

Having had some connection professionally with Monarch on the flying side, whilst I wouldn’t say it is a ‘job for life’, once you join the family, you tend to stay long-term. I understand that is also true of the admin and support staff. A thousand redundancies is going to be a huge hit to the bottom line on redundancy pay-outs that is why I really am sceptical of any figures until a formal announcement. A troubling time for all staff and not helped by newspaper 'leaks'!

[Chidken Sangwich]

Numbers...

3198 staff employed last year. 42 aircraft = 76.14 staff per aircraft. 12 aircraft reduction = 913 staff, rounded up to 1000 by the newspapers.

The numbers are out there if you know where to look.

[111KAB]

The 3,000 plus number relates to Group employees prior to EMA closure and includes Monarch Airlines, Monarch Aircraft Engineering and Monarch Travel Group, which includes tour operators Cosmos Holidays, Avro and somewhere2stay.com so the aircraft to employee relationship should only be applied (if required) to Monarch Airlines Ltd.

[pabloc]

The papers say a fleet reduction to 30?....are they using that figure because they have ordered 30 new aircraft?....lets all wait until an official statement!

[111KAB]

pabloc totally agree however if nothing else their PR department/consultants, IMO, seem to be lacking. Perceived adverse news and rumours are rich food for journalists and the internet - you either sit back and let it happen and possibly have an impact on your business or you counter act it in the hope the steam/rumour is taken out of any comments.

This is either undertaken by straight forward denial or spin. Unfortunately neither seem to be taking place. If hub/staff/Director/plane/route reductions do occur then put out press releases (incidentally these should be prior to any 'bad' news which hasn't been the case thus far) that provide the positive side for those loyal customers, who, like most people read the dailies so as to both allay their 'fears' and support your reorganisation.


Taking Chidken Sangwich's post as an example someone soon may make a press comment between say a Monarch Group figure of 76 staff per plane to FR which is around 29 personnel and indicate a staff reduction must be achieved to satisfy the City if Monarch's desire to raise £60 mil is be achieved. It must be on the books that the analysts are going to be going through the Monarch accounts etc looking for anomalies and facts to make their press comments etc and Monarch should be ready (if not ahead of the 'gun') to deny/spin this to their advantage - at the moment I have my doubts that (other than possibly the 'travel' press) that this is being, in any way, achieved.

[CPR]

The above post is undermining the work others are doing on your behalf. Please edit or refrain from posting such info.

Wishing you all the best!

[melaac]

Direct Entry Pilot - First Officer BA - Pilot shortage - Pilot shortage (http://www.pilotshortage.co.uk/direct-entry-pilot-first-officer-ba/)

Things are looking up....

[PAPI-74]

Transparency seems to only occur after the horse has bolted....

[Hangar6]

Some of you may recall FR being insolvent, Irish gvt were petitioned to step in and save them, and look what happened!

Sometimes the advent of a crisis makes mgmt focus on the numbers that matter, let's hope Monarch get to focus and grow, just like a bankrupt FR did ?

[JustAnother777Driver]

I am ex-spotty M and it must be very sad news for the crews affected by this decision to end long haul flying in Monarch.

[PPRuNe Pop]

I am only going to say this once more. I thought once already was enough but a not so smart arse thought different. Please do NOT publish any letters or anything else that Monarch send to you or their staff. It could be sensitive and very worrying.


I have just banned one not so clever poster who did just that - for a month. If anyone does it again it will be permanent.


In circumstances that are tough times, it can be desperate to know that jobs maybe on the line. That must come from their employers not someone who thinks he doing everyone a favour.


PPP

[PAPI-74]

September doesn't work for me. I guess the Nigel conversion will have to wait....

[arthur harbrow]

Probably not that relevant, but I dropped daughter of at Lgw this morning to go to Preveza.She has phoned to say flight is cancelled until tomorrow, she also noted other delayed Monarch flights.
Is this due to crew shortages, tech aircraft?
I will be in big trouble with her because I recommended them as I try and fly with Monarch when possible.
Hope things work out ok for everyone at the airline as they have always provided me with good sevice.

[LBIA]

Looks like an Leeds/Bradford announcement could be imminent as I see Monarch have started to cut back on the amount of flights to Las Palmas, Grenoble and Barcelona from the original proposed winter schedule this evening.

[2Planks]

Thanks LBIA - nothing like finding out your flight is not operating from a forum. I await the text/e mail barrage. Yet again they have let me down, they have had my money for months and I will get nothing back in return - nothing they can offer me from a close airport will suffice. Grrrr.

[2Planks]

From the booking engine at Monarch.com tonight most of the LBA programme dries up at the end of Oct, the remainder being:
Faro till 26 Mar - Thu and Sun
Lanzarote till 26 Mar - Thu and Sun
Gran Canaria till 16 Mar - Mon and Sat
Tenerife till 27 Mar Tue and Fri
Grenoble till 21 Feb - Sat.


I'm not an expert on rostering etc - but this doesn't even look like a full programme for 1 ac.

[Towerman]

Hard Facts:

Monarch does not own any of its fleet they are all leased aircraft

The Lessors all met last week with Seabury who are trying to substantially lower lease rental payments

Monarch should / could be a going concern

One of the big four are on standby if no investor comes forward

Jet 2 are prowling but will typically not gonna pay top dollar

Best bet is a trade sale

What happens to Engineering? Good question - jewel in crown. 787 maintenance etc

[Facelookbovvered]

I'm not convinced that Jet2 would wade into this, although it would be quantum leap in the scope of Jet2 coverage if it were to do so, but fleet integration,pay scales, & terms and condition would be mess. Whilst the 'Monarch' brand should have value, its only worth something if you intend to keep it, something that Jet2 would be unlikely to do.

For the same reason we can probably discount any of the other LCC getting involved, so a trade sale looks unlikely. I suspect they will have looked at their forward booking and started trimming anything that looks weak going into the winter, some suggestion that EMA flights may be moved in to BHX ahead of the winter program.

MAEL must be worth a lot of money though

So a restructuring and new investors for the airline business must be the best hope for staff and the owners, raising finance secured on the engineering business maybe, but it will be a damaging period for the airline, adapt or die, sadly

[mn06]

Does anyone know if Manchester to Antalya, Bodrum, Gran Canaria, Larnaca and Paphos are operating next summer? No flights showing on the website currently...

[MANFOD]

Have those MAN flights you mention been removed or were they not in when schedules for s2015 were first loaded?

[lagerlout]

I was definitely looking at some Manchester flights that now seem to have gone!!

Is MAN also to get a bit of a chop???

[Falcon666]

Luton is also the same at the moment.
Antalya, Bodrum and Corfu not bookable for S15 but were in the system last week.
Interesting that it appears to be just those two bases presently.

[toledoashley]

There is also no Gatwick - Bodrum, Heraklion, Hurghada & Ibiza next summer either.

[Ascendo tuum]

"Jet 2 are prowling but will typically not gonna pay top dollar"


I believe Towerman is talking about the A330 fleet, not the entire company.:sad:

[gilesdavies]

This whole review of the airline is turning into a sham and effecting customers who have already made travel plans... This is turning into one epic PR disaster and airline is going to fall on its own sword at this rate!

Last week the airline was showing 3x weekly flights between Luton and Sharm El Sheikh for January 2015 and now this is down to a single weekly flight when I went to book yesterday...

The airline is messing about passengers who already have made travel plans and it is already showing on their Facebook page... Surely the airline should never have released their summer 2015 schedule, to then go and withdraw routes a few weeks down the line.

People are saying on the Facebook how they have noticed routes disappearing and other people saying how their friends have already booked a flight and they have gone to book and not showing. The airline does not respond to these posts, while other peoples posts are responded too.

I hope the airline is appropriately compensating passengers that have their flights cancelled, for example covering the additional costs if prices are more expensive with another airline or travel costs to fly from another airport. But some how I doubt it!

I have no confidence in booking with the airline, unless it is within the next few weeks as they seem to be cancelling flights/schedules and times.

[Nyerp]

So far that's 12 routes next summer not bookable, will there be new routes, increased frequencies on existing or are they looking to consolidate and return aircraft to lessors?

[ATNotts]

The airline is messing about passengers who already have made travel plans and it is already showing on their Facebook page... Surely the airline should never have released their summer 2015 schedule, to then go and withdraw routes a few weeks down the line.

People are saying on the Facebook how they have noticed routes disappearing and other people saying how their friends have already booked a flight and they have gone to book and not showing. The airline does not respond to these posts, while other peoples posts are responded too.

Let's be fair to Monarch; they are doing what most other carriers do these days - add routes, cancel routes, reduce frequencies etc. all at a (commercial) whim with scant regard for their customers plans. This isn't new, IT operators have been doing it for years - more so back in the 1970 and 1980s when their flight details in brochures were little better than a best selling work of fiction. It's not nice, but the industry has always treated the "bucket and spade" passenger with contempt when it comes to changing arrangements.

I ask, it is really wise to fan the flames of "bad publicity", putting Monarch employee's jobs at risk? Personally I consider it bad form, and something that we shouldn't be indulging in in these forums.

[SWBKCB]

Fair point, but this isn't the 70's and 80's and it isn't the passengers who are putting out press releases about reviews or not responding to questions on their own forum.

The bad publicity seems to be of Monarch's making and they need to get a grip.

[ATNotts]

Fair point, but this isn't the 70's and 80's

Agreed, but the ethics of some carriers, apart from Monarch, in doing such things are alive and well, and part of the day to day commercial realities - look at one of the two largest low cost operators in Europe, and not necessarily the UK owned one.

Tour operators aren't immune today either.

Fortunately not everyone sit there gawping at Facebook all day long - it's when consumer "jounalists" get their teeth into the airline the real danger arises - and I'm sure some of them lurk on these forums.

[compton3bravo]

Flown Monarch again from and to Gibraltar to Luton over the last two weeks to attend yet another funeral in the UK (third this year). Tuesday outbound from Gib about 160 on board and back the following Wednesday only 106 with only 27 seats taken up front. The Luton-Gib figures are shocking for the end of August - only paid about 45 pounds inc tax for the flight and that was booked less than two weeks before departure. The Birmingham flight on the Tuesday f/to Gib was about 125/155 still not very good for the time of year. I was talking to a member of the crew and the problem according to the company was YIELD.
On a positive note both sectors arrived early and crew friendly and helpful as always to me seems the case.
Do hope everything turns out positively - an awful lot of people's livelihood at stake.
PS Giles not everybody looks or has Facebook - one hear for starters!

[ATNotts]

I was talking to a member of the crew and the problem according to the company was YIELD.

That's no surprise, and will account for why EMA has got the chop - there has been far too much capacity to the same old, same old destinations for a few years now.

BHX, fortunately, or unfortunately dependent upon where you sit punches way below it's weight on the med. destinations, so yield ought not be an issue to the same extent - unless of course someone sitting in the sales department at Monarch failed to understand that bums on seats isn't always the best way of turning red numbers on the balance sheet into black ones.

[CabinCrewe]

I would have thought those GIB figures (from a load rather than yield point of view) would be ok for what is a relatively niche route with bigger competing routes along the coast. Getting high 90's LF on those routes I wouldnt have thought were ever on anyones radar

[take-off]

We'll I should imagine there will be a few more unhappy monarch pax , this afternoons TFS , has been cancelled from manchester , it was meant to be on an a330, but see Palma is running behind too.

[MILEHIGHBOY]

So far that's 12 routes next summer not bookable, will there be new routes, increased frequencies on existing or are they looking to consolidate and return aircraft to lessors?

Considering they are cutting 1000+ Jobs, axing all Long-Haul & Charters, pulling out of EMA, rumoured to be pulling out of LBA, downsizing by 12 Aircraft and many S15 routes reported to be pulled from the website - i highly doubt they will be announcing any New Routes or increased frequencies on existing!

[ATNotts]

Considering they are cutting 1000+ Jobs, axing all Long-Haul & Charters, pulling out of EMA, rumoured to be pulling out of LBA, downsizing by 12 Aircraft and many S15 routes reported to be pulled from the website - i highly doubt they will be announcing any New Routes or increased frequencies on existing!

From that the only "facts" are that EMA base will be closed at the end of W14/15, and that the management has been quoted as saying that it's hard to make long haul work on such a small programme.

It is reported that up to 1000 jobs may be at risk, and that the fleet could be reduced to 30 units. Exiting LBA is just that - rumour.

I agree however that additional capacity on existing routes seems unlikely, given the capacity that has already been cut - though with the quoted intention to become a totally scheduled airline, they could perhaps find non bucket and spade destinations where they could make some good money. Time, and the pending review will tell.

[compton3bravo]

Cabin Crew - if you look at the load factors on the easyJet Gib flights from/to Gatwick I think you might change your mind. I would also disagree with you that it is a niche route but everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
The BA flights are also well patronised especially with ships crews mainly from outside the EU positioning or going on leave via Heathrow as they do not need a visa which they would need to get into Spain and fly from Malaga etc.

[MKY661]

I flew MAN-GIB last week and it seemed to be an almost full flight. Can't see any problem with the routes from GIB to be honest :)

[paully]

Yes I flew Gib/Man last week and the flight was full as well..The problem was the
crew..It was like amateurs night..Flight arrived into Gib late..Ground staff started to get pax ready to board, then had to hold everyone because the flight deck were in the duty free shop!!..Then the disabled arrived on the scissor lorry right in the middle of boarding..People were openly laughing at their antics..Not a good advert when you are in trouble I`m afraid..

I would rate it as a one off though but if Gib was marketed better it could be a city route that made them money..time will tell

[MKY661]

They went to the Duty free for us as well I think :) I use GIB because the place we stay is closer there than it is to AGP :)

[2Planks]

4 days after my flights were removed from sale Monarch have still not contacted me. However, on checking my itinerary on line I have been bumped to Manchester at inconvenient times that will involve extra expense and a hotel to meet the flight time. I have contacted Customer Services asking for an explanation and asking them to pick up the extra tab (I know 2 hopes......) But at least we know as a fact that LBA-GNB finishes on 21 Feb 15.

[samj]

Does anyone know if one of the A330s are off to do the Hajj this year?

[Mr @ Spotty M]

A330 not being used on the Hajj this year. :ok:

[David Sharpe]

I have tried to take a brief look at Monarch and it's plans for Summer 2015 (speculated reduction in air frames, dropped routes, etc) based on the latest possible dropped routes discussed in the thread.

What we know so far, the 2 x A330's will be gone by next Summer, and we are also 2 aircraft light from the closure of the East Midlands base. If the rumoured closure of the Leeds Bradford base goes ahead (2 x A320 aircraft) then we are only 6 aircraft short of the rumoured reduction of 12 aircraft.

Looking at the possible dropped routes detailed earlier in the thread (I have discounted Ibiza from this list as it is a route that is expected to be released at a later date) I have looked at the potential reduction in flights based on frequencies operated in August of this year.

Birmingham.

Dropped routes to Almeria (3 x weekly) Hurghada (1 x weekly) and Split (3 x weekly) on scheduled, they also operated 5 x IT services (to Corfu, Preveza, Rhodes, Skiathos and Zante) which may or may not return as scheduled services next year ??

Luton.

Dropped routes to Antalya, Bodrum and Corfu (all 3 x weekly) on scheduled, they also operated 1 x IT service to Zante.

Gatwick.

Dropped routes to Bodrum (3 x weekly) Heraklion (3 x weekly) and Hurghada (2 x weekly) on scheduled, they also operated around 25 x weekly IT services

Manchester.

Dropped routes to Antalya (4 x weekly) Bodrum (2 x weekly) Larnaca (6 x weekly) Las Palmas (3 x weekly) and Paphos (2 x weekly) on scheduled, they also operated 15 x weekly IT services.


Therefore, potential lost services are 12 x weekly (Birmingham) 10 x weekly (Luton) 33 x weekly (Gatwick) and 32 x weekly (Manchester) which seems to indicate, as most people have probably suspected, 2 airframe losses at both Gatwick and Manchester, and 1 airframe loss at Birmingham and Luton.

I know that some existing services will operate with increased frequencies next year, but I expect that some other existing services will operate at reduced frequencies based on August of this year.

Still early days I know, but expect quite a reduction in the number of daily rotations next Summer (I think they have been hitting close to 200 a day on some peak days in August with the overnight additional services to Spain (Palma, Malaga, Alicante and Tenerife South) in place.

[MILEHIGHBOY]

May have been mentioned in previous posts but new edition of the ZB In-Flight Magazine supplies some info on new/increased routes:

BHX-SZG 1xWeekly From 13Dec
BHX-TRN 1xWeekly From 13Dec
LBA-LPA 2xWeekly From 08Nov

S15 increased frequenices to:

FCO
VCE
FAO
VRN
PMI
GIB
NBE
TFS
ALC
DLM

[MKY661]

What we know so far, the 2 x A330's will be gone by next Summer, and we are also 2 aircraft light from the closure of the East Midlands base. If the rumoured closure of the Leeds Bradford base goes ahead (2 x A320 aircraft) then we are only 6 aircraft short of the rumoured reduction of 12 aircraft.

I know long Haul is being dropped, but not heard anything about the A330's leaving from anywhere. Heard it was still under consideration :)

[ma44hew94]

Interesting to hear the A330's may be leaving the fleet. Although this does make me wonder, what will be operating the long haul Sanford (Orlando) flights next year as they are already available to book? An A321 perhaps?

[samj]

What do Monarch A330s get up to during the winter season?

[MKY661]

I've seen them do some Ski routes sometimes, can be very Popular :)

[d4ky]

Pretty sad to see it go this way for Monarch


Think the idea of the 737's was poor, and the fact they are dropping so many destinations is again poor


Its sad to see. I remember the days of MON charters with inflight entertainment etc.. one of the best airlines


Now it seems they want to be Ryanair


Flying just isn't the same

[MKY661]

and the fact they are dropping so many destinations is again poor

Most of these I believe are under review, so we may see them back on the website soon :)

[SCANDIC]

The 757's have swapped airports. DAJB to LGW AND MONJ to MAN both coming from Zakynthos. Won't be the same when their gone from the fleet.:{

[SCANDIC]

I don't think the 73's will happen, surely they need to get the company balanced and that would be easier sticking with the airbus instead of going for a totally different manufacturer. Don't rate the 737 anyway airbus all day long.

[The96er]

The 757's have swapped airports. DAJB to LGW AND MONJ to MAN both coming from Zakynthos. Won't be the same when their gone from the fleet.

Exactly - you'd have absolutely nothing to talk about !

[Charlie98]

Interesting to hear the A330's may be leaving the fleet. Although this does make me wonder, what will be operating the long haul Sanford (Orlando) flights next year as they are already available to book? An A321 perhaps?

That is possibly the most wishful idea - In reality it would be a logistical nightmare and will never happen as it would probably require 3 stops - if the 330 goes, as does the longhaul :P

[ma44hew94]

I never thought about the range (Im relatively new to being interested in planes!)

However, that does raise another point that if the A330's go by next Summer, what will be left to operate the Orlando flights which are already on sale. Surely they couldn't be cancelled and customers refunded?

[CabinCrewe]

They are just cosmos etc charter reserved seats, they can still sell them but just get seats on another carrier.

[EK77WNCL]

Actually an A321 would probably be possible... Great Circle Mapper (http://www.gcmap.com/mapui?P=MAN-YYT-SFB,+LGW-YYT-SFB) with a 45 minute or less turnaround, it might not put too many passangers off. And frequency could be increased.

[crewmeal]

The A321 is not ETOPS cleared and never would be for such an operation. It is a short haul aircraft. However the B757 was cleared because of its range, but still required a tech stop in the Gander area before continuing south.

[toledoashley]

Cosmos have a history of selling destinations that Monarch don't fly to. Mauritius, Sri Lanka and recently Maldives have all been covered by BA or EK. Can't see why they wouldn't do the same to America, maybe even selling seats on the Norwegian flight.

[SCANDIC]

Can't beat the 757, 737 or 321 will never get close to it.

[EK77WNCL]

Agreed, 757MAX or A322 would be a cash cow.

[111KAB]

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/d4fcccac-419c-11e4-b98f-00144feabdc0.html#axzz3E1MCxz7C

[SCANDIC]

I think Boeing should try doing something more with the 757 to make it into a 757 max or something along those lines.

[pabely]

I agree, superb airplane, if re-engined / airframe upgrade - would be a game changer!

[CabinCrewe]

never mind the fact the tooling and equipment was dismantled and sold off years ago.... It would need to be a start from scratch and that is not going to happen

[davidjohnson6]

There's an article about Greybull and Monarch - much of it similiar to what the FT wrote. There's a slightly cryptic comment in the article about administrators at PwC being ready to step if Greybull (or somebody else) declines to take over Monarch.
Can someone perhaps reassure as to what 'administrators' means in this case ? I have an idea and I'm hoping it's not the type of administration I'm thinking of.

http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-2764274/Airline-Monarch-talks-rescue-deal-Comet-investment-firm.html

[crosswind11]

It means the company would be going bust if PwC step in. Game over for Monarch sadly.

[SCANDIC]

It's a shame no one is prepared to look at doing something for the 75, such a great aircraft and sadly disappearing fast.

[EK77WNCL]

CabinCrewe, actually no Boeing commented about 6-12 months ago that they still do have some/most/all of the tooling for the 757. Or something along those lines.

[pabely]

PwC - sadly it's touch and go...

[MKY661]

Greybull will bid for Monarch it looks like :):
Monarch bidder confirmed - www.travelweekly.co.uk (http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/09/23/49433/monarch+bidder+confirmed.html)

[Skipness One Echo]

Let's keep the weekly "Why don't Boeing build new B757s" for airliners.net please, there are many threads going over the reasons why this won't happen over in the forums there.

In terms of Monarch going under, this won't happen unless the current owners decide to allow the business go to the wall, which is a little different from the usual.

[EI-BUD]

Good news that the bidder plans to keep the company as going concern. I imagine the rule was ran over the prospect of asset stripping.

No doubt the Gatwick slots could fetch a good price. An likely easyJet would pay good money for them in order to keep the competition out , ie threats Norwegian et al.

[MKY661]

So if Monarch are selling Gatwick slots, I assume this will become one of the smallest bases? :)

[hatters united]

MKY661.
That was not what was said now, was it !!

[LNIDA]

LGW isn't slot restricted in the same way LHR is. LGW have found slots for Norwegians 300+ flights a week and more aircraft both short haul and long haul are planned for next year from Norwegian according to joint press releases from LGW/NAS

[LGS6753]

But it was only last year that FlyBe sold its slots to EZY for £25m

[Buster the Bear]

No doubt Monarch have 'Prime Time' slots that are worth a premium. If you look at Norwegian departure times, most for the outbound rotation depart between 05:00 and 06:30!

[anna_list]

Please excuse this slightly off-topic comment, but it does have some relevance:

Demand exceeds supply for Gatwick slots in many hours of the day (but not in every hour, as is the case at Heathrow). Check out the ACL start of season report for full details.

For example, slots for 07:00-08:00, 10:00-13:00 and 14:00-16:00 were oversubscribed this summer.

Slots were available in reasonable quantities from 08:00-10:00 and after 19:00.

This would explain why slots for based aircraft are likely to have fairly high values.

This summer higher capacities were declared in some hours (up to 55 movements), but now that NATS have lost the ATC contract it's not certain that capacity improvements will continue to be found.

[T250]

This summer higher capacities were declared in some hours (up to 55 movements), but now that NATS have lost the ATC contract it's not certain that capacity improvements will continue to be found.

There's no evidence/reason that LGW would not be able to continue providing up to 55 movements with its new ATC service provider :rolleyes::hmm:

[SealinkBF]

Greybull was the savior of Comet...

[111KAB]

Monarch hopes 600 staff will choose voluntary redundancy - www.travelweekly.co.uk (http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/09/24/49454/monarch-hopes-600-staff-will-choose-voluntary-redundancy.html)

[CabinCrewe]

BBC News - Monarch staff agree to pay cuts of up to 30% (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-29353907)
Can it get any worse ?

[LNIDA]

Yes they have some anti social departure slots, but these do get you into Europe in time for the start of the business day, the second wave (inbounds from Europe based aircraft) tend to be 08:00 -09:30 either way they seem to enjoy a good load factor, told long haul is above 95% which is good for a new market, but summers over now so there will be a lot of work to do to sustain it i think.

[Buster the Bear]

Who are the short haul business travellers that fly Norwegian from Gatwick (Scandinavia apart)?

Ballot is like turkeys voting for Christmas!

MAEL has a value, so do the prime Gatwick slots. Once Greybull do the deal with Boeing I will believe Monarch will fly on.

[kasuga]

Monarch airline: from prince to pauper | Business | The Guardian (http://www.theguardian.com/business/2014/sep/25/monarch-airline-prince-pauper)

[INeedTheFull90]

It could get a LOT worse. They could all be out of a job. The 30% brings them inline with the industry standard (which has and will continue to fall) terms and conditions.

[PAPI-74]

I really hope that Monarch spend their advertising budget wisely. To date, they seem to have drain-piped 10's of thousands in local areas, while Jet2 and Jet2 Holidays have become a national brand.

Maybe sack the bod in marketing and get a specialist brand generating company on board !!!

[EI-BUD]

I commend the staff for accepting the 30% pay cut. However, I cannot see what point of difference that Monarch can bring to the table. As the article rightly points out, the customer compares prices typically with EasyJet and Ryanair. Monarch will never achieve the economies of scale that either of those cost leaders can, and as a result aiming to play in the same space as these 2 comes at a price.

I believe that a strategy for Monarch has to be on that these other 2 can not easily penetrate, eg like Jet2 with their Jet2 holidays brand which really drives a difference and protects them to quite an extent against easyJet and Ryanair.

Sadly, in aviation if you don't have a sustainable competitive advantage or a niche you have the odds stacked against you. The strategy outlined by the article suggests , focus on sun routes with more sustainable costs, neither of which is niche or a sustainable competitive advantage.

[ericlday]

Keep the Ltn - Tfs route going this winter now that Ryanair have withdrawn.

[sparkie320]

Not sure if this is the right place to post this
so sorry if in wrong bit

I have just started a little project on working out where each aircraft in the fleet are operating from on a daily basies using info from Flight Rader and tracking the flights, not sure is this info is accurt
i,m looking at September 1st-7th on each aircraft if anyone has any info to add
G-MARA changed at some point from LGW-BHX cant find the details on the flights operated to carry out the change
G-OZBT went from EMA-BHX
G-ZBAH went from LBA-BHX around about the 4th Sep
if i can have the flights operated would be most kind so can log it on the sheet
from October i plan to have each flight, each aircraft operates on a daily basies, how good is the info from Flight Rader are there any other sites that i could obtain this info far short of wrtting to Monarch who i would guess not give out this sort of info
One thing i noticed is they seem to change bases on route for example fly BHX-TFS-LGW what hapens to the crew do they stay on the aircraft they departed UK from or do they change aircraft as well so that they get back to there original base departed from

Notice that G-OZBG & G-OZBK not flown couple of days, are these at Luton base undergoing maintance, which i like to find out on some log as well

Yes sorry this is long and winded but sometime like to sit down and find out the other side of airline operations

[Facelookbovvered]

This outfit buying Monarch are opportunist/venture capitalist, we have a distressed owner that wants rid (fact) a well known brand (fact) moving into a market they don't know (fact) from a market they did know (fact) they have presented the employee's with a business plan that cuts their T&C"s by 30% in the vain hope that it will save the airline, it won't, it just allows the owners to sell/transfer the business to GB in a certain condition.

Monarch will loose a stack of cash over the winter (fact) and pilots (fact)

If i was running GB (not ZB ) i would line up a sale for MAEL and slots at LGW and pocket the money, i would not piss it into the wind trying to take on the likes of EZ/FR/DY these people are ordering/have aircraft on order in the magnitude of 100's not 30 aircraft, from what i hear DY plan to have 30 aircraft at LGW alone in 5 years plus BHX & MAN Easy have 40 in LGW now.

This looks like bmi all over again, but this time the owner isn't standing behind them, the DOT (trade not transport) should launch an immediate enquiry into transfer pricing between Monarch and its oversea's owners especially if the PFP is going to pick up the tab........

[qwertyuiop]

Or put another way.

Monarch make plenty of money on some routes and a loss on others.
Chop the loss making routes and stick to what they do well.

Stop paying extortionate rates to MAEL.

Stop paying extortionate rates for aircraft leases.

Pay below market rates for crew. (Not too happy about that!!).

Monarch is a profitable airline that has been used to subsidise other areas of the group.

[INeedTheFull90]

Momarch a profitable airline? Then why did they have to go begging to the Family for her another bailout? MAEL ais the only profitable part of the Monarch group.

[qwertyuiop]

I'm not going to spend ages on here debating.

InNeed.
Simply put, MAEL charge MAL way over the market rate for engineering services and support (as Facelookbovered says-FACT). You will have to ask the shareholders/senior management why they chose to do it this way.
Why are the leasing rates significantly higher than they should be. Maybe it suited the shareholders.
Do your own research as to why!

[INeedTheFull90]

That must be a relief for those potentially facing the axe. All the airline needs to do is separate from the rest of the group, and they'll print money and relocate their HQ next to a river that flows with the finest whiskey. Everyone's happy.

[LNIDA]

The CAA have just extended Monarch's ATOL licence for a further 3 weeks until the 24th of October to allow it to trade whilst it completes its sale to new owners

This could get very messy very quickly, more FR rescue flights .....

This must be hurting confidence & bookings

[pabloc]

Youre loving this LNIDA :\

[Skipness One Echo]

The CAA have just extended Monarch's ATOL licence for a further 3 weeks until the 24th of October to allow it to trade whilst it completes its sale to new owners
What's the background to this? There's a context I am missing.....

[toledoashley]

ATOL licences are always renewed on the 1st October.

[RHINO]

This is housekeeping to tidy up with the new owners.

[New T2 Office]

LNIDA writes:


The CAA have just granted Monarch an extension to its licence until the 24th of October 2014 by which time it 'hopes' to complete its sale, if not ?????:sad:

and also writes on another thread (why 2 posts on different threads I wonder?):rolleyes::rolleyes::


"This must be hurting confidence & bookings"



Sorry to disappoint you LNIDA, but its not 'hurting' confidence or bookings at all..........as RHINO eludes to, just normal housekeeping!

Did Monarch dismiss you in a former life?? :bored::bored:

Just wondering thats all

[Shed-on-a-Pole]

LN- is the registration prefix for Norway. And a person from this country is known as a Norwegian.

Certain carriers would stand to do very nicely from difficulties at MON.

Pure coincidence, surely???!!!

[compton3bravo]

I am a bit worried about LN-IDA - of course he maybe the PR spokesperson for a certain Norwegian airline? If things do not turn out as he hopes and we all hope that Monarch pull through - there again he might be pining for the fjords!

[LNIDA]

Some off you have had your head in the sand or worse for the past 12 months over the state of Monarch, living in this bubble of 'di family' will sort it.

You have watched an airline announce redundancies, with botched PR, spend 9 months evaluating the CS,NG & Neo, with a decision by Xmas 2013, Easter 2014 and finally a MOI at the airshow, all shortly before closing EMA, culling long haul, culling T&C's culling Pensions, culling staff, culling the fleet ,they announced to the trade 3 weeks ago that they expected to conclude a deal with GB by the end of September, well that came and went, er yesterday and it wasn't a Sunday.......


When they say that PWc are on standby, they don't mean their on standby to be called out if some is sick !!, they are on standby in case this deal doesn't go through to put Monarch into administration, i truly hope it doesn't come to this, lets hope this deal is done quickly, put simply if this isn't done by month end, it will likely be over.

[ZeBedie]

i truly hope it doesn't come to this

You've been asked before and I make no apology for asking again. Please stop with the false concern - it makes me want to puke.

[LNIDA]

Puke all you like

I have nothing to gain from Monarch going under or lose from their rescue, i have been made redundant several times so i know what it feels like, so i will not comment again on this matter, but he that is blind cannot see the future.

[RHINO]

LNIDA,

your LAST post was your best post:ok:

[Facelookbovvered]

is LBA staying as a base

[111KAB]

The Monarch Group. Part 1: No divine right to rule the air, but a new reign has started purposefully | CAPA - Centre for Aviation (http://centreforaviation.com/analysis/the-monarch-group-part-1-no-divine-right-to-rule-the-air-but-a-new-reign-has-started-purposefully-189891)


http://centreforaviation.com/analysis/monarch-airlines-part-2-why-one-of-europes-lowest-cost-airlines-is-right-to-seek-cost-reductions-189893

[SCANDIC]

Is there not going to be any lease to Garuda this winter for the 330 it's usually gone by now I think.

[MKY661]

Not this year. Not sure why though :)

[TartinTon]

Because the Garuda a/c would have needed to leave the flying prog in August when Monarchs most profitable flying is taking place

[sparkie320]

Anyone know where A321 G-OZBG is as not flown since 28/9
& A321 G-OZBX assume at Luton since 3/10

[SCANDIC]

Anybody know why DAJB has gone from Glasgow to Kraków could it have something to do with football?

[MKY661]

& A321 G-OZBX assume at Luton since 3/10

G-OZBX is an A320 :)

My guess is probably just for checks :)

[Kramer81]

Anybody know why DAJB has gone from Glasgow to Kraków could it have something to do with football?

Glasgow City women's football team are playing a Champions League game there, that probably explains it.

[sparkie320]

A321 G-OZBE also worked a EDI-KRV in September 16th/17th when it flew MAN-EDI-KRK-EDI-BHX guess another football charter
And yes your right G-OZBX is a A320 sorry
is there any good Luton Airport logs out there on line
which might give info on what in the hangers at a given time

Also anyone else who logs what each aircraft flights are during a given month, just started mine on Monarch

[Alex321]

My guess is with both the A320/A321 now that we are out of the peak summer timetable and in the shoulder period before changing to winter timetable early November that the aircraft have gone in for hanger inputs.

DAJB is doing a private charter nothing football related, it is for the same company that used G-OZBE in September.

[compton3bravo]

As Alex pointed out it is a private charter on a day trip taking the passengers on a ´visit´if that is the word to a notorious concentration camp nearby beginning with the letter A.
The same aircraft did a similar flight from Luton last week.
Any flight beginning with the figure 9 is usually a private charter flight i.e. football, cruise etc. Hope this answers your query.

[22/04]

Guess these private charters will become a thing of the past or very rare soon.

Anyone know if this part of the business is being run down yet i.e. are bookings for charters still being taken.

A pity- charters made Monarch more interesting to observe than Thomson or Easy etc although I know both do occasional charter work. Always quite a few MON 9xxx flights.

Presume no more Captain's Choice with the 757s going.

[VickersVicount]

Thomson and EZY are fulfilling full more stable and reliable fleet wide in house programs, those with lots of capacity for private charters are the ones apparently in trouble be that for spotters appreciation or not...

[Artie Fufkin]

...and in English?

[OltonPete]

The booking engine and timetable indicating Leeds flights next summer.

It makes little sense at present as only a few routes, low frequencies and odd days such as Faro Tuesday and Wednesday only. It could indicate that they are been loaded and some positive news.

On the downside although the booking engine shows flights on a certain day when selected you can't book but definitely a change from last week.

[22/04]

As this is a rumour network is there an agreement with Leeds which makes withdrawal difficult -heard this might be the case.

OP I know they are a bit different but for a successful ad hoc airline- Titan?

[easyflyer83]

But as overcapacity looms, airlines like Titan May suffer as a large part of their business relies on under capacity.

[22/04]

Think there will always be room for at least one carrier of this kind unless Easy BA plan on over capacity and aeroplanes sitting idle just in case.

Titan and to a lessor extent Monarch have filled the gaps for a long time now- before them were Invicta, Donaldson, Alidair etc.

[easyflyer83]

I never said it would be the death of them but airlines like Titan will find it increasingly difficult if overcapacity in the market continues.

[JB007]

Titan do much more in Europe than the UK, over the last few years, business has not been an issue and certainly UK overcapacity hasn't shown any indication of a slow down, quite the opposite in fact.

[Egon Maybach]

It will not be very long before 9xxx numbers are a thing of the past at Monarch entirely, which is a shame as there is still demand.
The Commercial Dept made their bed and now they are having to lie in it.

[easyflyer83]

Overcapacity isn't/won't be a UK only issue. It is Europe wide.

[2Planks]

OltonPete


Just had a look and can't find anything after March for Faro (or anywhere else) from LBA

[OltonPete]

2Planks

Faro is still in the booking engine on Tuesdays and Wednesdays as the days of operation but when when you select the days the fares are not shown.

Same for Dalaman in May, Saturday only but you go to book the fares are not displayed. Larnaca is displayed on a Saturday from April but again when you book the fare is not displayed.

Palma is displayed during April Wednesday only until 13th May and again you select and fares are not displayed.

Most likely just a glitch but sometimes an indication that flights are about to be loaded.

Just tried BHX -CFU and Rhodes via Cosmos which operated this year and both were not offered although Sunday Preveza was.

I suppose as it is early October plenty of time to finalise and more will be known in a couple of weeks but things seem to be changing. My brother has booked his Corfu apartment next June and was going to use Monarch flight only from BHX but now it won't allow you to finalise the booking.

Titan

On Tuesday despite several of their own aircraft resting Titan was used on BHX - Venice.

[samj]

I see the A330s are still in full swing on the summer programme. Does anyone know how well loaded there short haul flights have been this summer? Also where do they go in the winter season?!

[22/04]

Think monarch need to get the final programme up soon- there must already be loss of confidence.

Fingers crossed sale goes through week after next.

Will the 330s stay until 2018 as was to be the case, now?

[renort]

Titan being used when in-house units are available?
Won't be the first time.
The annual subcharter bill has been truly astonishing for the last few years.

[2Planks]

OltonPete - I am now confused. I can't recreate what you are getting - no days of operation shown. I'm looking at Monarch.co.uk on Internet Explorer. Are you using a mobile app or something different. Gremlins! But whatever happens if they are going to operate flights next summer they need to get on with it - the 3 other major operators out of Leeds (in this market) have been flogging tickets for weeks

[RobT100]

G-ZBAA & G-ZBAB have been replaced recently at LBA for some unknown reason. Both were supposed to be based there according to Monarch

[MKY661]

Might be Maintenence work which needed to be taken place. G-ZBAA was LTN based when I was in Spain back in the summer, so maybe they must move around occasionally :)

[OltonPete]

2Planks

It was using Google Chrome on a stand-alone but all changed again last night - nothing there for Leeds again after March.

Also, out of the booking engine has gone BHX-CFU, RHO, EFL and Zante and Manchester Corfu and I think Zante. Yet it was noted that BHX-CFU and RHO appeared with ZB flight numbers rather than MON briefly but now gone and neither on sale at Cosmos.

RobT100

AA & AB have both been at BHX all week but only both operated Sunday and today. I assume AA was in MAEL Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

[MANTHRUST]

New routes from LBA coming soon

[Hull City AFC]

MANTHRUST
New routes from LBA coming soon

Could you elaborate please? Either here or via pm. Thanks

[MANTHRUST]

I would like to but I have signed a NDA so you will just have to wait.

[Flightrider]

Surprising. I'd have thought the fact you'd signed an NDA would in itself be a condition of the NDA.

[Hull City AFC]

MANTHRUST
I would like to but I have signed a NDA so you will just have to wait.

Don't need your info now, already found out by another poster elsewhere.

[MANTHRUST]

How can we keep anything confidential with all these leaks?

[harer92]

Don't need your info now, already found out by another poster elsewhere.

Care to eleborate and share a link either publically or via pm?

[Waldo]

New Leeds schedule coming shortly! What this space

[Hull City AFC]

Very reliable source confirms the following new routes from Monarch at LBA.

1. Alicante
2. Gibraltar
3. Naples
4. Rhodes
5. Sharm El Sheikh
6. Zante.

[TartinTon]

Hull City....I would check your "very reliable source". Sharm from LBA?? Not a chance on the airbus without a serious payload restriction. The 757s could have done it but they are gone.

[Hull City AFC]

TartinTon, just wait and see before spouting your mouth off!!!!!

[MKY661]

2. Gibraltar

Hopefully this will work. Gibraltar really needs expanding at the moment and I know a few people go to that part of Spain who do use Leeds (I know GIB is not Spain but it's useful for the western side of the Costa del Sol) :)

[MKY661]

Hull City....I would check your "very reliable source". Sharm from LBA?? Not a chance on the airbus without a serious payload restriction. The 757s could have done it but they are gone.

Some Monarch A321's have been fitted with some device which allows them to travel further distances. The A321 currently do most Sharm flights from all the other bases :)

[LBIA]

I suppose them LBA based A320's G-ZBAA/B do have there advantages with them Sharklets.

[gilesdavies]

Great news if the rumours are true...

I have read previously Monarch were contractually obliged to keep the LBA base... I hope this does not mean further cutbacks on other bases to accomodate the two aircraft needed to fly from this base.

It will be interesting to know that when Monarch announced they were cutting the fleet from 42 to 30 aircraft if this included the two that will be required for LBA or if the fleet will now be only cut to 32.

Hull City....I would check your "very reliable source". Sharm from LBA?? Not a chance on the airbus without a serious payload restriction. The 757s could have done it but they are gone.


???

Why would this be an issue?!

Leeds-Bradford has about 100m runway length advantage over Luton, and Monarch have been operating to Sharm-El-Sheikh with the A321 from there for about a year now and both airports are on top of hills too.

When I have flown LTN-SSH, it has always been busy and doubt their are any weight restrictions with the passenger loads.

[TOM100]

They need to carry more fuel and hence weight from Leeds ?

[MKY661]

Hull City AFC, do you know if flights from Manchester to Antalya, Bodrum, Gran Canaria, Larnaca and Paphos will be operating next summer or are these for the chop? Heard they were under review :)

[yeo valley]

routes under review with a smilie face. not quite right, as could mean job losses.

[pabloc]

Just been 900 redundencies!:{

[Monde]

try the RTOW off 32 out of LBA due to the obstacles and rising ground towards the Chevin - even Larnaca is a struggle in a 320....

[TartinTon]

Quite correct Monde....but what do I know...I'm just "spouting my mouth off" :rolleyes:

[ExpectmorePayless]

Monde. The people who could make those calculations are probably now redundant. :ugh: Only the Directors, top 120 Managers, Senior Business Analysts, Programme Managers, Project Managers, Change Management consultants, HR Business Partners, Business Analysts, project consultants and the PR and Communication Executives are left. :O

[MKY661]

routes under review with a smilie face. not quite right, as could mean job losses.

Yeah really need to stop adding smilies to everything I write haha. I hope these routes do continue as I do see the potential still with these ones :)

[Hull City AFC]

Monde & TartinTon:
Just wait and see what Monarch have planned before instantly dismissing.

MKY661, I'll see what I can find out for you.

[Southside Hangers]

Where did you see/hear that pabloc, can't find anything about it on good ole Google

[111KAB]

One of the many reports regarding the problems at Monarch for SH >


Monarch airline: from prince to pauper | Business | The Guardian (http://www.theguardian.com/business/2014/sep/25/monarch-airline-prince-pauper)

[pabloc]

Southsidehangers...its been well reported in the periodicals and here in terms and endearment ( also on a more personel note:{)..

[Facelookbovvered]

I think the biggest challenge will be ensuring that summer profits overwhelm winter losses. Where Monarch are heading is a business model similar to Jet2, Jet2 make money on less passengers than Monarch carry, but managing winter losses through summer contract crews and airlines, Jet2 have an additional advantage, their aircraft capital cost are far less due to the fleet age.

Monarch say they wan't to compete with the major LoCo's, but Ryanair, easyJet & Norwegian have routes that they fill even on damp Tuesdays in November or Thursdays in Feb and to get their cost down Monarch will need to fly their new Boeings a lot more than a seasonal operator, whilst I'm fairly sure the deal with Greybull will go through, that will only be the start of Monarch regaining its crown

[111KAB]

My recent post was actually in answer to Southside Hangar who had not, it appeared, seen coverage regarding the redundancies.

With regard to the more general situation I have doubts regarding the 'intentions' of Greybull Capital. They are, by there own admission a vulture fund and their input into Comet Electrical and Riley Snooker suggests they may be in it for a short term gain. The early morning slots, MAEL, Cosmos etc. may be worth more than the money they are injecting and indeed I have read that contingent liabilities are in excess of the Greybull injection figure and the pension black hole is another factor. The fact that Avalon Waterways do not form part of the sale is telling insofar as this is where the Swiss see growth/profit.

I agree that the winter period is difficult for any bucket and spade airline and Monarch will probably suffer from the reported slow take up of ski packages. In addition the recent uncertainty must place doubt for some pax bookings. Greybull Capital can therefore stay in long term (I have my doubts), liquidate or float. Given the current financial situation I cannot see any sale of Monarch being attractive to the City however this is where the competition score ie having the ability to call upon shareholder backing when it comes to say aircraft fleet renewal/expansion.

I feel the Swiss (and the board at the time) just let matters drag on for too long whilst the others were expanding and whilst I commend the new board for trying to get a grip of the matter I question whether it is too late particularly in respect of the partner they have had to run with.


LBA flights loaded today > http://www.monarch.co.uk/news/flights/2014-news/get-booking-for-summer-2015-lba



http://www.travelmole.com/news_feature.php?news_id=2013627&c=setreg&region=2


http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/10/14/49719/new+monarch+flights+introduced+at+leeds+bradford+airport.htm l

[gilesdavies]

They are, by there own admission a vulture fund and their input into Comet Electrical and Riley Snooker suggests they may be in it for a short term gain.

It will be interesting to see how Greybull steer the airline...

I personally think the airline will be stripped of much of its assets. For example Cosmos/Avro tour operations and Monarch Engineering sold off. Also assets like aircraft, hangars and HQ building if any of this is owned by the airline sold and leased back.

I think the Boeing order will be cancelled and they will make do with the reduced A320/321 fleet for the short term before making a decision.

I also fear if the airline does not return to a profit quickly, it will be shut down or sold off to a competitor!

It does make me wonder if the airline will be primed for a merger in the longer term once overheads are dramatically reduced, for example to the likes of easyJet, with a compatible fleet, additional slots at LGW and MAN. Also offering them a ready made base at Birmingham and a new larger HQ building in Luton.

I'll be shot down for been the doomsday mongerer, but I think people need to realise Greybull are not the knight in shining armour, many think they are. They only takeover a business if a fast buck can be made, and the airline industry is not a place you come to get rich quickly!

[INeedTheFull90]

With a large black hole in the pension fund, few owned aircraft and the costs involved in merging I doubt anyone would buy it. Be more cost effective to just let it implode then pick up the pieces without any of the liabilities. Besides, A321 is not wanted at EZ

[Monde]

Hull City - i've waited and i've now seen ......

[MKY661]

ALC & NAP on sale just waiting for the other 4 to come.

[paully]

Monarch`s own blurb just announces 2 new routes (Alicante and Naples)..If they were going to do more I would have thought it would have been all at the same time...

Update from the horses mouth: http://www.monarch.co.uk/news/flights/2014-news/get-booking-for-summer-2015-lba

hmmm......

[renort]

Hull City, disregarding people who are EXTREMELY knowledgable on the subject while running round getting more info for an enthusiast doesnt help your case.

I thought Monarch's recovery was based around focusing on the core business, not chasing more loss-making rainbows in Jet2's back garden.

...but if that is indeed the case, its just new lunatics running the old asylum.

[22/04]

As said before it might be an agreement with gardener means that have to play in that particular garden for a while

[Buster the Bear]

I wonder how much the 'prime' Gatwick slots might be worth?

Flybe sold 25 departure and arrival slots for £20m. Might Monarch post take-over be bought just for these type of assets and Airbus rated crew? The 'Bulls' will want to maximise the disposal which is probably going to happen?

[Hull City AFC]

Monde, good for you. This is of course a rumour network, even someone providing information, which is usually reliable, can be wrong once in a while.

Renort, what's wrong with attempting to find information out for enthusiasts? & 'extremely knowledgeable" ?!? Hmm okay then.

[INeedTheFull90]

Buster: those crews come with liabilities such as the pension deficit, high wages, cost of integration as well as the fact that they may not be a cultural fit for the new airline. Much cheaper just let it implode and then mop up the good stuff.

[renort]

Hull

When peoples livelihoods and mortgages are on the line, feeding the droolers who are more interested in colour schemes, reggies and if particular aircraft have winglets or 'things that make them fly further' becomes a little tedious.
Theres a section called spotters corner dedicated to that particular enterprise.

Sorry but far too many people on this thread confuse opinion and/or rumour with fact. Therefore unfortunately it is you who is spouting your mouth off

[INeedTheFull90]

This winter will be a tough one. Ebola hysteria spreading, fears of a eurozone recession and a fragile worldwide economy will hit traffic. The usual ten year cycles in the airlines would appear to be getting shorter. Mix these things in, and the chronic overcapacity in Europe and its a perfect storm for the airlines. There will be casualties in the UK, Ireland and Europe too.

[Hull City AFC]

Renort:

Aww don't you like the discussion. Diddums.

Its a forum for all, if you don't like it, dont read it. Simples.

[Buster the Bear]

I appreciate all the 'baggage' that comes with a take over, but it might be the only method to secure all the slots? Short-term hit for a long-term gain?

I still cannot believe what is happening at Monarch and having met many that occupy the front two seats - good luck to you all, whatever the outcome.

[Artie Fufkin]

The usual ten year cycles in the airlines would appear to be getting shorter. Mix these things in, and the chronic overcapacity in Europe and its a perfect storm for the airlines. There will be casualties in the UK, Ireland and Europe too.


Well I was told the economic cycle was 7 years. If you remember 9/11 (ushering in one downturn) to Excel going bust (ushering in the next) was 7 years to the day.

7 years after that will be this time next year. With the Eurozone looking dodgy, it'll be the EU to LGW where the bloodbath will occur; Easy/ BA/ Norwegian. Can't see it'll effect the sun routes. If the last recession proved anything, the package holiday won't be in any doubt, but point to point EU travel will be.

[111KAB]

Monarch job losses reduced by 200 - www.travelweekly.co.uk (http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/10/20/50793/monarch-job-losses-reduced-by-200.html)

[Buster the Bear]

With a 'black hole' of £150m in the Final Salary Pension Scheme, the take over appears far from 'done and dusted'!

Confidence over Monarch rescue as deadline looms - www.travelweekly.co.uk (http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/10/20/50781/confidence-over-monarch-rescue-as-deadline-looms.html)

[Walnut]

Pension Black holes can disappear into the PPF, that's what happened in the BMI takeover where Lufthansa made an under payment of circa £80M. The losers were the high salary earners ie pilots

[on time all the time]

Tomorrow should be the big day.........

[MKY661]

Monarch operating Business as usual tomorrow according to Twitter, so either the sale is completed or the CAA have extended their license. Going to announce the news in a few hours.

[nigel osborne]

MKY661

Well its 7.20pm and can't find any press release about a deal today,

Any news anywhere on it ?

[Funderblaster]

The CAA ATOL checker is offline for maintenance. Maybe being updated ?

[N707ZS]

Does anyone know what the future is for the last 757s once retired?

[Buster the Bear]

20:15 local and no news, but hoping for good news.

[SCANDIC]

Let's hope it good news for everyone linked with the company. I believe jet2 have bought one of the 75's but not sure about the other two.

[pabely]

Monarch secures ₤125 million of permanent capital and liquidity facilities through sale to Greybull Capital

24/10/14
Monarch achieves ₤200 million annual reductions – facilitating network restructuring and permanent competitive cost structure

THE BOARD of Monarch Holdings Limited (“Monarch” or the “Group”), the UK’s leading independent leisure travel group, is pleased to announce today the completion of its strategic review and restructuring programme under which it has secured ₤125 million of permanent capital and liquidity facilities provided by Greybull Capital LLP (“Greybull”) anchored by a ₤50 million capital commitment, with contributions from the Group’s prior shareholders, principally the Mantegazza family. Greybull also acquired 90% ownership interest in Monarch, with the remaining 10% passing to the Group’s defined pension scheme and ultimately the Pension Protection Fund (“PPF”).

The Civil Aviation Authority has renewed the Group’s ATOL licence.

Greybull is a family office that manages investments in private companies across a diversified range of industry sectors. Greybull will provide significant capital to Monarch in order to grow the Group and build on its long-established heritage and trusted brand name.

Under the leadership of new Chief Executive Andrew Swaffield, Monarch has undertaken a comprehensive strategic review of all areas of the business, from operations to ownership and financing. The aim of the review has been to create the optimum structure to realise the significant opportunity to build on Monarch’s respected brand and distinctive offer to its customers in the European scheduled leisure carrier market.

The main outcomes of Monarch’s strategic review and restructuring, which have led to the successful transaction with Greybull, are:

Optimise fleet from 42 to 34 aircraft, and revised agreements with lessors to either mark-to-market or early return of 10 aircraft from the current fleet
Securing a new Boeing fleet order for 30 737 MAX 8 aircraft with deliveries from 2018 to 2020, providing a cost-effective and uniform fleet by late 2020
Both long-haul and charter flying to end by April 2015
Airline network to specialise on Monarch’s ‘heartland’ of scheduled short-haul European leisure routes, with increased average frequencies, aircraft utilisation, productivity and profitability
Focus on five UK airport bases – London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, London Luton and Leeds-Bradford – and closure of East Midlands from summer 2015
Material concessions agreed with employees across the Group to enable the successful restructuring, including reductions in pay of up to 30%, with more than 90% of unionised staff voting to accept changes, and some 700 redundancies, two-thirds of which were voluntary
Reduction of the Group’s operating cost base, in line with other low-cost carriers, and increased efficiencies across the business
Resolution of the Group’s pension deficit through agreement with the Pensions Regulator, PPF and the Trustee of the Monarch Airlines Limited Retirement Benefits Plan which will result in the Plan being assessed for entry into the PPF. The PPF would then hold a 10% stake in the Group, in line with its principles in restructurings such as this. The Pensions Regulator has cleared the restructuring. The pension deficit as per the company’s balance sheet was previously £158 million and the current estimated shortfall to secure full benefits is around £660 million.


Monarch Group CEO, Andrew Swaffield, said:

“I am delighted to welcome the Greybull team as the new owners of the Monarch Group. We have a shared vision for the strategic direction and prospects for the business, and I am looking forward to working with them to implement the exciting plans for building our future.”

“I would personally like to thank all Monarch employees who have been hugely supportive of the initiatives which were essential to complete this transaction. I am very proud to be leading such a team – together we will be building a great future for the Group.”

Commenting on behalf of the selling shareholders, Fabio Mantegazza said:

“We are very proud to have created one of the most loved aviation brands in the UK over the last 46 years. We think that now is an appropriate time to allow new shareholders to take Monarch into the future, with secure financial backing and clear strategic goals and we wish the Group every success.”

Said Greybull Partner Marc Meyohas:

“We are delighted to acquire Monarch and invest our capital into a very strong brand with great potential in all its markets and are grateful for the selling shareholders’ support in achieving this transaction. We see this as a long-term investment and hope we can be very supportive shareholders throughout Monarch’s next chapter.”

Advisers:

Seabury Securities (UK) Ltd., a unit of Seabury Group, acted as lead investment banker, along with co-adviser Dean Street Advisers, to the Monarch Group on the transaction with Greybull Capital LLP. Seabury Advisors LLC served as Monarch’s lead restructuring adviser and industrial consultant with respect to crafting the turnaround plan with Monarch’s management group. KPMG LLP and Short Partners LLP served as additional restructuring advisers. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP and Bird and Bird LLP served as legal advisers to Monarch.

Greybull was advised by Zolfo Cooper LLP as financial adviser and Forsters LLP as legal counsel.

PricewaterhouseCoopers served as adviser to the selling shareholders.

Notes to Editors:

About Monarch’s strategic review

In August 2014, Monarch confirmed it was undergoing a strategic review with the objective of determining the optimal structure to take the company forward. The Group sees a significant opportunity to build on the respected Monarch brand and distinctive customer offer, in order to create a focused and efficient scheduled European leisure carrier. Part of this strategy involves a major investment into its aircraft fleet. In July 2014, Monarch announced Boeing was the preferred bidder for its narrow-bodied fleet replacement, with 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8s for delivery from Q2 2018. At current list prices, this aircraft deal would be worth $3.1 billion. This transformational investment will enable Monarch to operate as efficiently as any European low-cost carrier.

As part of the strategic review, the Board of Monarch identified a number of cost-reduction initiatives that needed to be addressed in order to compete effectively in its chosen markets, specifically the scheduled European short-haul leisure market. With the strong support of all of Monarch’s stakeholders, including its employees, unions, third-party suppliers and regulators, a number of initiatives were set in motion and have been agreed to create a far stronger Group.

About Greybull Capital LLP

Greybull has private equity investments in various sectors including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, energy, industrials, retail and leisure. It is a long-term active investor with significant or controlling stakes in all of its companies. Within its portfolio Greybull owns significant assets including:

Plessey Semiconductors Limited, where since 2010 Greybull has supported management’s plans to restructure and re-develop the company and has financed add-on acquisitions
New Era Petroleum Inc. Since 2010 Greybull has backed New Era with both working capital to develop its activities and capital to acquire and re-develop oil fields in the US
Arc Specialist Engineering Limited is a conglomerate of businesses in the steel industry. Greybull fully financed Arc and has been successfully trading the company since becoming its majority shareholder in 2013

[Whiskey Zulu]

They better not let all those years of hard work, dedication and professionalism go to waste for the sake of short term gain. Monarch staff past and present have sacrificed SO much for the sake of a continued future. My best wishes go to all concerned.

[Buster the Bear]

Good luck to all at my favourite airline.

In 12 months time what will Monarch be then?

[Say again s l o w l y]

If the effort put in by everyone in the last couple of months is continued, then we've got a chance.

It's been painful and that won't end on Monday, as more good people leave in the near future, but there is hope. We'll just have to see what the exact plan is going forward.

[dc9-32]

Lets not forget smoke and mirrors.....
Tread carefully. I wish all at Monarch the very best of luck. I was once a very small part of the airline in the 80's and know first hand what a great company it is, has been and could be.

[GROUNDHOG]

Monarch's 'heartland' must surely be the business it was founded and grew over the years, namely charter. remembering especially those who were partly responsible for that and sadly no longer being with us. What the airline has and will continue to developed in to is something different.

I wish all at Monarch a long and profitable future.

[renort]

You mean you haven't got a plan yet????
That's worrying

GROUNDHOG - very true.

[sat1]

"Both long-haul and charter flying to end by April 2015
Airline network to specialise on Monarch’s ‘heartland’ of scheduled short-haul European leisure routes, with increased average frequencies, aircraft utilisation, productivity and profitability"...........

Just a thought,but wont this put them directly head to head with ryanair?

[crewmeal]

Agreed they will be going head to head not only with Ryan air but Jet 2, Easy Thomson and to some extent Flybe especially as they will be joining the 737 fleet. Now they have dropped the IT and long haul arm I really hope the marketing and planning people know what they are taking on as they have a hell of an upward job competing in an already established low cost market. These are the key departments that need to have their heads screwed on in order to succeed.

Good luck to all concerned.

[sat1]

"there's gonna be blood"

[fjencl]

Will cosmos holidays still be operating with monarch......

[nigel osborne]

Pabely,

Well its a relief that the airline continues;

However Im told from others who have had dealings with Grey Bull before that allegedly they tend to fatten the best bits of companies up, then sell them off in parts to the highest bidders.

Perhaps this press release is only partial as it makes no mention from Grey Bull about the future of Cosmos or MAEL ?

Im keeping my fingers crossed that they are really interested in aviation ,preserving the great Monarch name long term, and not planning to sell bits off..

Suppose time will tell .

Monarch have for many years been quite cozy with the Swiss family more than happy until recently to bail the airline out.

Now the airlines protection is lifted and they now don't have that safety net and will have to fend for themselves.

Sure we all wish them well in finding a niche and being able to keep the other LCC pack of Wolves off them, in this challenging market.

[EI-BUD]

The messages on here claim that the cost base has been corrected to the effect that it is in the comparable with other low cost airlines, which strikes me as quite a spurious claim given the broad array of cost bases that the low cost airlines have.

There is no clear point of difference , and while some will say it is the brand and the legacy, what does this amount to? Not a lot when you consider that they have stated the ticket price is king.

The key over arching assumption is that cash rich competitors won't emark on a plan to hurt a recovering Monarch. Ryanair, easyJet and Jet2 all come to mind.

Each of these airlines lead in some area, ryanair on cost , scale and bank balance , easyJet on primary airports , scale and bank balance and Jet2 on holiday proposition , low cost due to older cheaper ac and by association affordability to cut winter capacity at minimal cost.

Until Mon develop a strategy that gives it leadership or sustainability in some area(s), I remain sceptical.

Good luck to all MON employees, you have compromised a lot, and deserve to do well.

[111KAB]

Monarch boss: 'We'll be debt-free within three years' - www.travelweekly.co.uk (http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/10/27/50863/monarch-boss-well-be-debt-free-within-three-years.html)


£4.5 million gone already? ???????????????? > http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2014/10/27/50871/olympic+holidays+parent+starts+legal+action+against+monarch. html

[Mr @ Spotty M]

Only if they win their case.

[MKY661]

The fleet was supposed to go down to 34 not 32.

2 new A321's on the way :ok:

[Fernanjet]

With Monarch stating that they would be debt free in 3 years, do you think todays supreme court decision to block the appeals by Jet2 and Thomson will open the floodgates for claims against ZB


they must have numerous claims against them from the last 6 years that would now be due payments

[LBIA]

Also looks like Monarch Airlines have finalised its deal with Boeing to order 30x new 737 Max jets worth an estimated $3.2 billion with deliveries commencing from 2 quarter 2018..

Monarch finalises aircraft deal | News | Travel Trade Gazette (http://www.ttgdigital.com/news/monarch-finalises-aircraft-deal/4693177.article)

[samj]

Absolutely gutted to see 2 x A330 leaving the fleet

[SCANDIC]

Hate it when airlines get rid of decent aircraft.

[EK77WNCL]

Aww no :( they could even just sell seats on the LGW-BHX positioning flights

[MKY661]

Aww no they could even just sell seats on the LGW-BHX positioning flights

I would have bought a seat as well :(

[SCANDIC]

It's such a shame there are no extra flights being run after all those years of being in the fleet, boo hoo monarch. :{

[wallp]

An iconic aircraft in the Monarch story, the 757 is the plane that really brought Monarch properly into the modern era, replacing the old & gas guzzling 720's. She has served the airline proudly for 30 years + I remember countless times watching her arrive and depart from my local airport, Luton. It's sad to see her finally leave the fleet

[CabinCrewe]

Weren't the 720's long gone by the time the 757s were in regular service?

[TSR2]

The 720's were retired in 1981 and the first 757 entered service in 1983.

[dc9-32]

any idea where the Airbus withdrawals are going after they leave Monarch ?

[wallp]

I stand corrected. I thought the 720's were around until just before the 757's first arrived. It was a long time ago.

[SCANDIC]

What is the next move for the 3 75's has anyone got any ideas.

[jamesp]

2 xa330s are off to jet2. Jet 2 also getting 2 x 320s, if they work well for jet2, they will be getting an all new a320 fleet and coming away from the boeing family.

[chuzwuza]

Would you care to elaborate on your theory? Or is that simply wishfull thinking?

[Ian Brooks]

chuzwuza you beat me to that i think a lot of wishful thinking there.
No way would Jet2 go for 3 A330 in a year as the 1st is coming from
Air Asia on 6 month lease and they have no need in winter

[Sean Dillon]

You spotters are worse than cabin crew on Airport Standby for utter nonsense!

The above from Jamesp is utter rubbish, just like SCANDIC and his Monarch 757 theory's to Jet2!

[jamesp]

wait and see !!!!
when they arrive I will remind you where you heard it first.