Monarch - 3

[sparkie320]

A320 Fleet
LBA
G-OZBW
G-OZBX

BHX
G-OZBY

LGW
G-ZBAH

LTN
G-ZBAP
G-ZBAS

MAN
G-ZBAT

BHX
G-ZBAR

A321 FLEET
LTN
G-OJEG
G-OZBE
G-ZBAF

LGW
G-OZBF
G-OZBI
G-OZBL
G-OZBN
G-OZBU
G-ZBAP
G-ZBAK
G-ZBAL

MAN
G-OZBH
G-OZBM
G-OZBT
G-ZBAE
G-ZBAI
G-ZBAO

BHX
G-OZBO
G-OZBR
G-OZBZ
G-ZBAG
G-ZBAJ
G-ZBAM

A321s G-MARA / G-OZBG assume undergoing maintaince at BHX/ LTN


https://www.flickr.com/photos/88573897@N03/albums

[ComeOnLetsFly!]

It seems that tonights Hurghada flight was delayed due to security issues with baggage before departing.

Aircraft eventually left 90 mins late without passenger baggage - apparently 2 other UK bound flights had the same problem.

[111KAB]

China's HNA Sets Sights On Britain's Monarch (http://news.sky.com/story/1678736/chinas-hna-sets-sights-on-britains-monarch)

[tubby linton]

I am surprised that you care 111KAB. You have made it your mission to wish ill on the airline and its employees despite winning a court case against the airline but that does not seem to be enough to satiate your hatred.http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2338887/Our-victory-thousands-left-stranded-flight-delays-Couples-payout-26-hour-ordeal.html

[111KAB]

Monarch draws up list of European airlines for possible takeover (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2016/04/16/monarch-draws-up-list-of-european-airlines-for-possible-takeover/)

[ATNotts]

Monarch draws up list of European airlines for possible takeover (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2016/04/16/monarch-draws-up-list-of-european-airlines-for-possible-takeover/)
There appears to be something of an obsession in elements of the press regarding Monarch. One day they are going to be sold to some Chinese concern, the next they are taking over any number of "struggling" European airlines!

TUI struggling? I wouldn't have thought so.

[Brigantee]

PRESS: easyJet Eyes Bid For Fellow Luton-Based Monarch Airlines - Finance News - London South East (http://www.lse.co.uk/AllNews.asp?code=mtz9g0vq&headline=PRESS_easyJet_Eyes_Bid_For_Fellow_LutonBased_Monarc h_Airlines)


http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/business/article1687933.ece

[Surreyman]

To quote the relevant paragraph: -

"Greybull is assessing several different options as part of its review of Monarch, from potential acquisitions to mergers, as well as a potential sale to a bigger player. Greybull rescued Monarch from certain bankruptcy in the summer of 2014. The airline was just hours away from being declared insolvent, which would have left tens of thousands of holidaymakers stranded around the world".

It would seem Greybull are maybe dropping pebbles into the pool, to see what the ripples bring back.
easyjet might be panicked by the thought of a chinese group coming in but there again I would have thought that the CMA would take a dim view of an easy takeover, especially at LTN at LGW.

[racedo]

[QUOTE]["Greybull is assessing several different options as part of its review of Monarch, from potential acquisitions to mergers, as well as a potential sale to a bigger player. Greybull rescued Monarch from certain bankruptcy in the summer of 2014. The airline was just hours away from being declared insolvent, which would have left tens of thousands of holidaymakers stranded around the world".

It would seem Greybull are maybe dropping pebbles into the pool, to see what the ripples bring back.
easyjet might be panicked by the thought of a chinese group coming in but there again I would have thought that the CMA would take a dim view of an easy takeover, especially at LTN at LGW. /QUOTE]

Potential purchasers

Easyjet........................... aside from slots not sure what it adds
Ryanair.................. slots at Gatwick where it has few would be interesting
IAG................... would be surprised
Jet2................possibly but doubtful

[Serenity]

Love the way this rumour network just goes to prove how little people actually know about situations and backgrounds!!

[EK77WNCL]

Thank you very much for the based details, really appreciate it

I'd really hope MON go for Jet2 (Dart Group) I think it offers the best chance for MON/LS to work together

[Flitefone]

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/easyjet-announces-shock-bid-snap-budget-airline-rival-monarch-1555285

Norwegian an Ryanair also both potentially a threat tonyhe EZY Gatwick and LTN bases...

[nigel osborne]

ATNOTTS

I think what Greybull are probably doing is building up a possible bank of bidders then play one off against another and that way get the best return for the airline .

Not sure that leaves the hardworking workforce , hopefully all still with good jobs when its eventually sold.

I suspect Grey Bull are pretty keen to secure a sale before they have to fork out for a fleet of 737MAX which the airline ordered before being bought by them.

[SWBKCB]

Classy bit of "journalism" - the final sentence of the piece is...

EasyJet has so far declined to comment on its proposed takeover bid.

which doesn't quite tie in with the headline :=

[Mr @ Spotty M]

Just a minor point, the B737MAX were not ordered before the takeover by Greybull. :=

[BAladdy]

The airbus fleet would fit perfectly in with VY's current fleet. It would be a great way for them to begin expanding further at LGW

[nguba]

The position regarding Monarch seems confused. I find it odd that Greystone are on the one hand putting it up for sale to realise their investment whilst simultaneously looking at bid targets which would require more capital.

There's no way IAG would sell VY, so that is a complete non-starter.

[BAladdy]

There's no way IAG would sell VY, so that is a complete non-starter.
I didn't say anything about IAG selling VY. What I said was IAG could buy ZB allowing VY to expand at LGW in competition with Easyjet

[gilesdavies]

The airbus fleet would fit perfectly in with VY's current fleet. It would be a great way for them to begin expanding further at LGW

Do you think BA would be interested in any of the slots, to maybe start new long haul routes, maybe split with a few going to Vueling? They have an awful lot of long haul aircraft on order, that need to be based somewhere.

I suspect Grey Bull are pretty keen to secure a sale before they have to fork out for a fleet of 737MAX which the airline ordered before being bought by them.

Thats my thinking too!

Greybull are renowned for flying in, and recue-ing a company in trouble, but the moment they can make a decent return on the money they invest, they quickly leave!

The Airbus fleet have been good to Greybull since the takeover, and for them they probably see no short term reason to replace them and short term is all Greybull are interested in Monarch for.

Why would they be interested in paying for the airline to get a new fleet and all the associated costs?

Even though I am sure easyJet have no interest in getting a Boeing 737-MAX fleet, they have little to choice but to bid for Monarch to ensure no other airlines swoops in and gains 10 aircraft based slots at LGW. Especially if the likes of Norwegian were to gain them and also the access to bases at other UK airports.

[Surreyman]

I can't believe that the 737 Max orders are a barrier to takeover/acquisition whatever, this has happened before, the aircraft are sold on if not required.
On a separate note, does anyone know the numbers/percentage of slots easy and Monarch hold at Gatwick?

[Buster the Bear]

A BA low cost unit named Monarch (in her 90th year).

Sounds much better than Vueling!

That is my own made up rumour, so will probably now be front page headlines!

[CSman]

Good thinking Buster, What do BA get out of it? staff who WANT to be at Gatwick , staff at BHX and Manchester to operate from the regions instead of being London Airways and the prime prize, the best engineering in British aviation Who am I with these wild ideas, long term BA Captain[long since retired]

[toledoashley]

I wrote an article on the very same theme 18 months ago. It would be an ideal opportunity for either BA or IAG to buy them to cement their position at Gatwick.

[Brigantee]

I think its odds on the Chinese will be taking a stake of at least 49per cent ...

[SWBKCB]

They'll not be able to take a stake of more than 49%, surely?

[rog747]

Chinese cannot no but an EU company can

[Brigantee]

The EU have said they are prepared to look at the deal due with a view to raising the figure due to the inward investment into the EU it may bring

[yeo valley]

that might be ok if britain is still in the EU

[Brigantee]

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/articles/61290/hainan-airlines-parent-eyes-stake-in-monarch

[nwoody2001]

Whilst we will never know the nature of talks behind closed doors, its good to hear that Greybull or refer that its intentions are Growth through Europe and that they are not looking to sell-up!

[111KAB]

Appears that they may be selling Manchester engineering .... http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/business/business-news/jobs-risk-monarch-proposes-closure-11212258

[LBIA]

Guess it's the Monarch hangar that Jet2 are looking to acquire at Manchester then?

[Brigantee]

Well its certainly going , Staff has been issued redundancy notices i believe , Selling to jet 2 may be the best outcome in the circumstances , Good luck to all those staff effected.

[111KAB]

Boss says Monarch are not for sale.


Monarch Airlines boss says eyeing acquisitions, not for sale - Finance News - London South East (http://www.lse.co.uk/FinanceNews.asp?code=1wvdo7vn&headline=Monarch_Airlines_boss_says_eyeing_acquisitions_not_ for_sale)

[jfy1999]

Seems they are interested in acquiring Thomas Cook or TUIfly. I don't understand the logic behind Monarch wanting to buy either, seeing as they've have just completed a transition from a leisure to a low cost/hybrid model.

[LAX_LHR]

Rather selfishly, I hope Monarch don't take over TCX.

After Monarch abandoned long haul, cut the base capacity of MAN and now potentially selling the hangar, Manchester stands to loose quite a lot should a similar pattern happen if the brought TCX.

[Cazza_fly]

Thomas Cook are here to stay. So are TUI. I dont understand how such news pieces get put together and are believed as credible. Do people not understand how huge these tour groups are ? Greybull would not get a look in at buying any part of their businesses right now, never mind their airline brands! Air Berlin, well thats a another story.

[ATNotts]

On the contrary, Thomas Cook owners have several times been quoted, OK in the media, but quoted none the less as considering divesting themselves of the airline to concentrate on their core business. TUI - I agree with you, sale unlikely.

[22/04]

The model on how holiday makers get to their resorts has been changing- tour operators now book lots of their customers on to the likes of EasyJet. It is not unfeasible if you want to expand that you buy an airline that largely carries holidaymakers and operate it as a scheduled service carrier selling seats to holiday companies. Monarch have been doing that for years and taking TCX gives a way to expand the existing business model Not so true yet in of Germany- and I doubt TUI would go that way but TCX might.

[111KAB]

Monarch adds new ski routes (http://www.travelmole.com/news_feature.php?news_id=2022235&c=setreg&region=2)

[Buster the Bear]

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/articles/62040/hainan-airlines-parent-confirms-interest-in-monarch-stake

[Brigantee]

Why on earth would they interested in Monarch??

[CSman]

Answer to your question, Because of outside of BA they are the best quality airline in the UK [BA retiree]

[paully]

would tend to agree with CSman..Just had to have a confab with their customer services this morning..Although initially their fault, they did their best to resolve the problem and I got the impression they were trying hard to please on customer service. I came off the phone satisfied. They created a good impression and I`ll use them again. Certainly better than Easyjet behind the scenes!!

[adfly]

Hopefully Hanian taking a stake will mean that Monarch can continue as Monarch and not be merged into another company. Be a shame to see the company disappear after so many years and just as they have gotten back on track financially.

[DjerbaDevil]

Jethro's reporting:

Jethro's Previous Updates (http://www.jethros.org.uk/previous/previous_updates.htm)

Monarch Airlines 21 Jun
Boeing B738-800 Unspecified No of a/c to be dry lsd comm 1Q17

[Buster the Bear]

Start of the crew training in preparation for the arrival of the MAX?

[jethro15]

Jethro's reporting - Jethro's Previous Updates (http://www.jethros.org.uk/previous/previous_updates.htm)

Amended to:

03 a/c to be dry lsd mid term. Due Jan, Feb, Mar 17

[Itchin McCrevis]

It's expansion not pre-MAX training

[BHX5DME]

3 x ex Ryanair machines ?

BHX based ?

[LGS6753]

I notice that ex-Ryanair 737s seem to end up on different continents. I wonder if this is written in to the lease by Ryanair?

[toledoashley]

My initial thought was Norwegian.

[Buster the Bear]

Gives Monarch the opportunity to commence type conversion early though and maybe part of the MAX order to extract Monarch from Airbus?

[Brigantee]

Beyond me how a company the size of monarch can compete long term in what appears to to be a ever decreasing pool with some very big predators swimming around

Maybe if the chinese take a stake they may be able to build on their recent success

[MKY661]

Summer 2017 now on Sale. No immediate changes apart from LGW-AYT is not bookable from next year.

[OltonPete]

What is the latest position with the 738?

I remember checking some booking engines including Monarch's own site a month or so ago and found the first 738 was in the schedule at BHX in late January and by late March three based.

Now I can't find any.

Has there been a major re-think at BHX since Jet2 announced their new BHX base?

Pete

[Buster the Bear]

Monarch Airlines in winter 2016/17 season introduces a total of 5 winter-only operations, including service to Innsbruck, Kittila and Turin. Planned operation as follow.

Birmingham – Innsbruck eff 26DEC16 2 weekly A321
London Gatwick – Kittila 02DEC16 – 17FEB17 2 weekly A321
London Gatwick – Turin eff 07JAN17 1 weekly A321
Manchester – Kittila 02DEC16 – 06JAN17 2 weekly A321
Manchester – Turin eff 07JAN17 1 weekly A321

[FRatSTN]

Just looking on the Monarch website for Stockholm as reported on the Manchester thread... although with no joy.

Any reason why their route map is so horrifically out of date?

[MKY661]

LAX_LHR on the MAN thread has also reported Zagreb & Oporto from MAN. I'm not sure if these will just be from MAN but we'll see.

LTN-FCO & LGW-AYT remain unbookable atm but with more flights still to come these may become bookable again.

[Serenity]

Routes only announced today!

[LGS6753]

I can see no announcements or route info on the Monarch website....

[MKY661]

I can see no announcements or route info on the Monarch website....

Routes Online confirmed it today:

Manchester to Oporto, Stockholm & Zagreb
Birmingham to Stockholm
Luton to Oporto & Stockholm
Gatwick to Zagreb

[VickersVicount]

Some unusual ones in there. A slight shift in focus. Lets see if those routes are still on the go 2018....

[Mr @ Spotty M]

New routes go on sale the 15th so we have been told.

[pabloc]

Yeah lets just see.......jeez!!!!...the negativity around Monarch at least they are not standing still and are pushing forward!!!!

[Bearpit]

Be interesting to see how they're going to do on these - I take it something must be giving way given the peak times and days of the week?


Zagreb sounds brave!

[DomyDom]

Great to see Monarch pushing forward with new routes from MAN and elsewhere. I'm sure they've done their homework so let's be positive and support them. It was only last year that some were complaining about the lack of routes to E. Europe being provided out of MAN - I think Zagreb was an example of a destination undeserved if I'm correct. Also good to see more choice on OPO as this always a popular choice. Stockholm a little more ambitious but again great to see some more choice on the route. So please let's have some positivity about good British airline that has a great brand and had until recently been written off. It's really frustrating in Britain but we really can't help knocking ourselves sometimes. Rant over 😃

[pabloc]

Well said DomyDom:D:D

[bill b]

Yes very well said ...good old Monarch 👍

[DomyDom]

Yes very well said ...good old Monarch 👍

Thanks for your support Pablo and Bill B.

I also see increased frequencies to Rhodes, Lisbon and Barcelona. And another based aircraft 😀 Well done Monarch!

[MKY661]

Also adding to the good news is that LTN-FCO and LTN-ACE will be operating for Summer 2017. Not sure about LGW-AYT though,

[Brigantee]

OAG reveal Monarch as the UK?s most punctual airline! ? Virtual Aviation (http://www.virtualaviation.co.uk/blog/2016/2/4/oag-reveal-monarch-as-the-uks-most-punctual-airline)

[TartinTon]

Err...why rehash a 7 month old news story? :=

[mudcity]

Any updates on the potential HNA investment.......

[The Hypnoboon]

Any updates on the potential HNA investment.......

HNA have also been linked with investment at PIK. potential if both happen for a Monarch base there as FR are not the force they once were there.

[Brigantee]

A deal with HNA is very unlikely.

[VickersVicount]

trouble at mill? #United744

[monarch767]

�� some airliners.net members really don't have anything better to do on a Sunday than make Stupid rumours up like this. Then surprise surprise it makes its way over to pprune

[eggc]

There are 2 UAL 744's, one at PMI and one at TFS. As posted elsewhere flight times match, in some cases, MON's schedule...and yes, they do ferry back out empty to return full.

26/09 UA2281 PMI BHX 1120 1255
26/09 MON951 PMI BHX 1120 1255

27/09 UA2285 PMI MAN 1100 1245
27/09 MON533 PMI MAN 1100 1245

28/09 UA2286 ALC LGW 1210 1350
28/09 MON263 ALC LGW 1200 1340

29/09 UA2281 ALC LGW 1330 1510
29/09 MON263 ALC LGW 1330 1510

[Ant6747]

Monarch strongly denying this is anything to do with them on Twitter. Monarch Twitter feed seems to have been taken over by people asking about the rumours. Hope these are just rumours, have flown Monarch a number of times over the years.

[Crosswind Limits]

What the hell are people on about????

[Jerbourg]

Hopefully there is no truth in this & it's pure speculation - Flights are still bookable on the website as of five minutes ago.

[Crosswind Limits]

It's vicious speculation and rumours! I work for Monarch and none of my colleagues are aware of this. Honestly have people got nothing better to do that spread idle and unfounded rumours!!??

We are as busy as ever and crews are working flat out in some cases!

I honestly believe some of these rumours are peddled by our competitor airlines who would rather we just disppaeared! Well sunshine boys we are staying put!!:ok:

[SWBKCB]

It appears the CAA have charted 2xUnited 744s, an Omni 767 and an Air Transat A330 to operate a series of flights over the next 7 todays to/from the UK to typical bucket and spade destinations.

All the flights are flying into the UK full, but ferrying back out empty then returning full again.

This type of operation is only ever seen after the collapse of a major tour operator/airline.

A lot of the United Airlines 744 schedules tie in directly with Monarch scheduled flights.

Make of this what you will

And your source is? Put up or shut up.

[toledoashley]

750XL - I remember the XL collapse and that was a complete nightmare.

[eggc]

All those flights are in system SWBKCB, first ones tomorrow. I've posted a small selection only above.

If the UAL, Omni, TSC flights are happening is not speculation...they are real, 100%...the reason for them is where the guess work is coming into it.

[HH6702]

Feel sorry for those monarch crew I'm hoping this isn't true.
Crews are always last to find out as if you knew you wouldn't fly today for them but if CAA maybe about to pull the plug then

[Jerbourg]

750XL - How do you know these flights have been 'suddenly arranged' they may have been arranged months ago..

[eggc]

They only popped up back end of last week. Since the initial 1 x UAL 744 it is now 2 (PMI / TFS), Air Transat 330's and Omni Air 777 (BCN) also thrown in today...it's a growing list...all one thing in common...UK to Spain empty and returning full.

Could it be another airline / tour operator involved ? It'd be devastating if it were MON :(

[caaardiff]

Have some respect for Monarchs employees.
Seeing as you're so quick to get this information out there, please confirm to everyone what it is you do within the industry to be able to obtain such solid facts?
Whether you work in the industry or not is no excuse for releasing statements like that.

[easyflyer83]

Crosswind limits, I think you will find that your colleagues at other airlines, regardless of whether the rumour is true or not, will be thinking of you guys this evening. Many of those colleagues will have been through an airline/employer collapse before and will not wish this upon you. I don't believe rumours would be peddled on a corporate level either.

The fact that your flights are busy and you are working flat out does not necessarily mean anything. There is obviously something going on and I keep my fingers crossed.

[SWBKCB]

750XL - I've no doubt the flights are operating but where does It appears the CAA have charted.... come from?

Also a little odd that only North American operators are being quoted - no EU capacity?

[toledoashley]

Normally you would expect HiFly, but a lot of their aircraft are operating for ELAL, and Blue Panorama are operating flights for Norwegian, so maybe a shortage of aircraft over here. Yes, agree its strange its all US aircraft, and all large aircraft at that.

[SWBKCB]

Monarch Airlines denies rumours it is going bust amid passenger fears | The Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/monarch-airlines-denies-rumours-it-is-going-bust-amid-passenger-fears-a7329461.html)

[clearanceoverthekeys]

Omni N477AX is about to land at Naples right now too.

[MKY661]

Air Transat A330 due out of MAN tomorrow to AGP as the TS255P, back as the TS255.

Incidentally the same 3 numbers as Monarchs AGP
I thought the AGP numbers were ZB652/653 for the morning and ZB654/655 in the afternoon/evening?

[PPRuNeUser0176]

A great shame if it happens, have flown many times with them. Would of expected them to be a prime takeover target....

It would be one of most organised winding down I have ever seen and its why I don't really believe it.

[eggc]

I know someone flying AGP-MAN Tuesday PM. They have been made aware the flight number is now TSC655. Monarch denying these flights are not to do with them is now disproven beyond doubt.

[paully]

I have been wondering if this is more to do with the owners Greybull.Their company website has suddenly acquired a rather sparse look about it, considering they have so many irons in the fire: Greybull Capital (http://www.greybull.co.uk/)

Rather limited for a company that acquired a large part of Tata Steel in June this year don`t you think..I hope these rumours are without substance but if not then lets hope Monarch is a viable entity, which I think it is and can be sold on/management buyout etc.

Massive political headache for the Government though if true

[rutankrd]

A company is obligated to trade up until the following are activated at the SAME time for a PLC a statement to the city and appointment of the receivers. This typically happens about 07.30 UK time for many GB businesses.

The elephant in the room here is Grey Bull they may be about to pull the plug - they have been looking for a buyer for some time and they want their money for their next venture "steel"

Grey Bull may have given the CAA early warning

Just a quick heads up right now Monarch has just three scheduled departures from the UK left today to Ibiza from Manchester/Gatwick and Birmingham. If these leave on time and are a back over night by 7.30am ALL the fleet should back in the UK real tragedy emerging if true.

[rutankrd]

We know what the breakfast headline story is now !

Its all but certain a stop stop overnight after the last arrivals from Ibiza get back.

[MKY661]

Just noticed all flights from GIB appear to be leaving late...

[SHTTKR]

pretty sure the gb website has always looked like that

[VickersVicount]

GIB flights often leave late... !

[pwalhx]

Is it me but I do not recall a previous occasion where repatriation flights have been arranged prior to the announcement of bankruptcy.

If I am wrong please correct me.

[VickersVicount]

Might be because circumstances may be unique and not collapse due to bankruptcy but a planned closure and quick wind down.

[JSCL]

Might be because circumstances may be unique and not collapse due to bankruptcy but a planned closure and quick wind down.
I'm inclined to think that if this were the case, then there would be no continuation of sales if it were as planned as that.

Is there no feasible situation that another company, be it; hotel chain, tour operator, cruise company or a.n.other has issues and that Monarch/CAA may be involved in a joint repatriation effort?

On the flip side, is there any reason that the CAA may have to suspend Monarch's AOC temporarily? I don't know much about goings on at Monarch.

[CabinCrewe]

just when I was going to book a Stockholm flight... ;)

[rjay259]

Heard that monarch planes have all been moved to a remote parking spots at airports and that planes have been chartered by the CAA for rescue flights. Apparently the time mirror those of above mentioned company.
Being a rumour network what truth is there in this??

[TURIN]

Already being discussed here. (http://www.pprune.org/airlines-airports-routes/476064-monarch-3-a-156.html)

[GingerC]

Is there no feasible situation that another company, be it; hotel chain, tour operator, cruise company or a.n.other has issues and that Monarch/CAA may be involved in a joint repatriation effort?


Yes, in the past Monarch has in fact been contracted by the CAA to co-ordinate repatriation flights. But if that's the case this time, why on earth not say so. Flat denials are so unconvincing, and it is obvious something is going on.

[AvGeek1]

If it is true they will just got into admisnistration in the morning and then someone will by them under a slightly tweaked name, exactly what happened with Dreams in the UK

[ExDubai]

Monarch Airlines strongly denies rumours it's in financial trouble after social media speculation - Manchester Evening News (http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/monarch-airlines-strongly-denies-rumours-11936873)

According to Monarch not true

[FANS]

Let us assume these are rumours for a moment. If they are not dealt with ASAP, they will be going bust.

Putting out statements on Twitter that "we can confirm these rumours are not correct" is worth as much as a chocolate teapot, and only leads to questions about why the twitter account is going past normal times.

There needs to be a statement from the CAA ASAP if these are only rumours.

[ATNotts]

just when I was going to book a Stockholm flight... ;)
Not a laughing matter!!

This is the internet and social media at it's very worst!! Will the people who are posting in various fora feel any twinges of guilt if the result is hundreds of people being put out of work as a result of unfounded rumours??

I really hope they lose some sleep if the worst happens, as a result of rumours.

[TartinTon]

I suspect most of the rank and file would have absolutely no idea that this was in the offing so no point in castigating them :ugh:

[aileron]

Will the management or investment company feel guilt?

[PAPI-74]

This really has to be the tabloids or competition running scared at Monarch's newly promoted brand and increased loads. Rumours can damage customer confidence; the origin of the rumours knows this and that intent is spiteful. If there are other airlines sniffing around Luton, any devaluing of a business can only be good for them. It wouldn't be the first time companies have tactically planted a seed in the press.

[eggc]

Other airlines would not sub-charter and pay for half a dozen or more long haul wide bodied aircraft and give them schedules that mirrored Monarchs just to create a rumour !

The facts are the CAA has chartered these aircraft, they are mostly in position now, and look to taking on some of MON's schedule.

Beyond that we've no idea why or whats going on right now.

[Captain_Caveman]

Rumours inside Monarch that it is to do with their handling company going bust in BHX / LGW and the flights are mostly to get replacement staff to those airports to handle their flights. Either situation it means a large number of staff feeling worried over the next few days by the speculation.

[ATNotts]

I suspect most of the rank and file would have absolutely no idea that this was in the offing so no point in castigating them :ugh:
If people don't know, they should keep their gobs shut, and their figures off the keyboard.

[FANS]

Assuming these are just rumours, it will now impact their business as it's the first thing that comes up on google.

Monarch tweeting "it simply isn't true" is not working.

[Airbanda]

This is the internet and social media at it's very worst!! Will the people who are posting in various fora feel any twinges of guilt if the result is hundreds of people being put out of work as a result of unfounded rumours??

It seems beyond doubt that several large a\c have been chartered by UK authorities and handling/flight plans lodged consistent with returning stranded people to UK.

It might relate to any ATOL bonded operator but given size of a\c and their operating pattern it is not a small outfit for historians or birdwatchers.

We will know at 07:00 tomorrow when market etc announcements need to be made.

Unfounded rumours can kill a grounded/wellfinanced business in days but not hours.

[GingerC]

Their handling company at Gatwick is Aviator. They handle a large number of other airlines there too, and they are rumoured to be in a less than ideal financial position. But why on earth would anyone need to move a 747 load of ground staff from Tenerife or Palma to the UK to deal with this, and would there be enough to spare anyway? Aviator's staff are still there. If the company has gone bust, the staff can be taken on by one of the other ground handling companies at Gatwick, and life goes on.

[FANS]

No market announcement needs to be made. They are not listed.

There's nothing stopping them posting a press release now.

Or better still, the CAA posting one.

[Izzarch]

Quick look on the Flight Radar App. And all current Monarch flights are returning to the UK, no outbounds. Surely not coincidence....

[eggc]

Sure there are 3 more due to leave MAN/BHX and LGW to IBZ before midnight. Mind you they will all be back by 0600, before the morning wave is due to leave - so entire fleet will be in the UK at this time. I hope we wake in the morning to the real reason for these events and Monarch still exist.

[caaardiff]

Monarch Airlines strongly denies rumours it's in financial trouble after social media speculation - Manchester Evening News (http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/monarch-airlines-strongly-denies-rumours-11936873)

Still being denied by Monarch, although not very convincingly! You'd think they'd get straight on this with a very clear message it's not true. No official announcement on Twitter or the website.
Something definitely is up and it could really hurt them if it's not true.

Rumours inside Monarch that it is to do with their handling company going bust in BHX / LGW and the flights are mostly to get replacement staff to those airports to handle their flights. Either situation it means a large number of staff feeling worried over the next few days by the speculation.

I also read about this on another forum. If true then that's a bizarre way of resolving the situation. No Airport could spare that many staff to warrant 747's! Handling agents workers will have slightly more security as Airlines still need to be handled. Most will transfer to the new handling agent.

I just don't get why all this would be pre-planned. If the Airline is being shut down, Could ZB not be forced to repatriate their own customers on their own aircraft? It doesn't seem like they are bankrupt so have no way and funding the repatriation flights.

[CCGE29]

If it was a cruise company that had gone out of business then why couldn't Monarch just release a statement about it. Just replying to people's tweets is just unconvincing.

[ATNotts]

Just stepping back slightly, flight only bookings are surely not covered by a CAA bond, that's only for packages where an ATOL is required. Monarch's business is in the main flight only airline bookings, plus some brokered seat sales to tour operators.

I can't see, therefore why the CAA would be involved in chartering aircraft. Have I missed something here?

[Jetaway]

Well if both Monarch and Aviator go bust its going to be one hell of a fun week at MAN/BHX/LGW

[VickersVicount]

All very curious. If it was to take out handling staff, why are the aircraft ferrying out empty to destinations and on 747's? Sounds more like a large shift of passengers. Only time will tell. ZB has lost its way a bit but is an institution and I feel sorry for anyone *** if*** this comes to anything

[Trash 'n' Navs]

Easier to believe their handler is in trouble - margins are very tight for them. Consider too the careful wording of their statement "has nothing to do with Monarch".

Or maybe their handler has served notice on ZB...

[janeyTA]

flight only bookings are surely not covered by a CAA bond, that's only for packages where an ATOL is required

Monarch flight only are Atol bonded.

[MKY661]

Can confirm G-OZBZ & G-ZBAL at LGW have not parked at remote stands (though one will do IBZ tonight). Source is FR24.

[FANS]

This rumour, which has grown and grown, is now leading to questions about Monarch's survival - i.e. as serious as it gets.

To have the company only respond by its twitter account manager ">GH" is not right.

[Mr Angry from Purley]

Airliners.net has a list of aircraft in around Europe that if true looks v worrying. I'm hoping its just a bad rumour

[NorthernChappie]

Website is still allowing bookings. Either very naughty or nothing up ?

[aileron]

From Airliners.net #102
5 minutes ago

guys - Monarch flights and seats are sold by First Aviation, at the end of SEPT the ATOL is due for renewal and that means a new bond is needed, that bond would be for more than GBP 5m. Greybull won't want to tie up that much working capital and as the airline has not been sold as a going concern, partly due to brevet concerns for a UK AOC and what it can and can't do after brexit, then the logical choice will be to shut the airline down prior to start of new ATOL year.

Sorry to say it but once the planes are airborne from IBZ, they will shut the airline down.

The aircraft in place are to be used for passengers to be repatriated, This is much better planned than the XL failure. All will become clear tomorrow AM.

[caaardiff]

26/09 UA2281 PMI BHX 1120 1255
26/09 MON951 PMI BHX 1120 1255

27/09 UA2285 PMI MAN 1100 1245
27/09 MON533 PMI MAN 1100 1245

28/09 UA2286 ALC LGW 1210 1350
28/09 MON263 ALC LGW 1200 1340

29/09 UA2281 ALC LGW 1330 1510
29/09 MON263 ALC LGW 1330 1510

Air Transat A330-200 positioning to MAN 1425 tomorrow
Omni Air - N819AX - OY819 - 777 - currently in BCN operating BCN-LGW
Omni Air - N477AX - OY477 - DFW to NAP - 767-300ER
Omni Air - N207AX - OY207 - DFW to LGW - 767-200ER
United Airlines - N120UA - UA2295 - ORD to TFS - 747-400
United Airlines - N116UA - UA2292 - ORD to PMI - 747-400

Talk now of Air Transat A310 and another UA 747 to come across the pond.
What's strange is why would TS be at MAN and OY207 & 819 be at LGW if they are repatriation flights? Wouldn't they all be down route ready?

According to AENA.ES:
OY819 1145 BCN-LGW. ZB flights from BCN tomorrow 1100 BHX, 1145 MAN, 1945 MAN, 2030 LBA and 2130 LGW. Why would Omni operate to LGW when the only flights at that time are to BHX and MAN?
UA 747 TFS not listed yet on TFS page. ZB flights from TFS tomorrow 1120 BHX, 1955 MAN and 2000 LGW
UA 747 PMI 1120 PMI-BHX. ZB flights from PMI tomorrow 1020 LGW, 1100 MAN, 1120 BHX
TS A330 not listed on AGP page. LTN, MAN and BHX flights midday and BHX MAN and LGW in evening.

[billyg]

Just seen a tweet saying that pax in Malaga have been advised that they will not be flying with Monarch tomorrow !

[Travel Agent]

Miami International (leased from TUI Ned) is en-route to Las Palmas now, not sure if this is part of the rescue flights?

[Blue-Shamrock 89]

Monarch's ground handler in Gatwick is Airline Services not Aviator.

[brian70]

What if it is nothing to do with Monarch and it's actually a North American holiday/cruise company that has gone under and that is why it's all North American/Canadian airlines that are doing the flights to bring their own people back staging via the UK

[brian70]

Also, Monarch are still posting job vacancies to start in October which would seem pointless if they are closing down

[GingerC]

We'll see one way or the other in the morning, won't we. My heart goes out to the staff of Monarch who will have a sleepless night worrying.

Unfortunately it entirely normal if a business closes down abruptly for most departments to carry on as normal until an announcement is made - this includes recruitment. Management would say, sometimes truthfully, that they have been trying to salvage the business right up to the last minute.

[easyflyer83]

The people who launch routes, recruit crew, in charge of PR etc etc are just employees running the airline. They won't be privy to anything about any potential wind down or administration so there is no other option for them to be busy as usual until told otherwise.

[FANS]

If Monarch aren't in trouble, they're doing their best to get into it! A lot doesn't make sense .

[VickersVicount]

nice Flickr pics of UA744 now at PMI. Quite an (ominous) sight.

[CabinCrewe]

TUI 787, Atlas and Miami Air in on the action now too. Really growing legs now. Can there be such a thing as a well organised failure?

[easyflyer83]

[QUOTE]What's strange is why would TS be at MAN and OY207 & 819 be at LGW if they are repatriation flights? Wouldn't they all be down route ready?
[QUOTE]

At a guess I would say they would need to drop crews off who will presumably be based at MAN and other UK airports during the operation.

[eggc]

MAN bussing officially advised 8 a/c to be parked / stored remote tonight :(

[janeyTA]

[QUOTE]TUI 787, Atlas and Miami Air in on the action now too[QUOTE]


There's a TOM flight to ACE on a 787 tomorrow, or is this an extra one you've found?

[AvGeek1]

Can confirm G-OZBZ & G-ZBAL at LGW have not parked at remote stands (though one will do IBZ tonight). Source is FR24.

Yes G-OZBZ is operating the Ibiza flight and is just taking off from Gatwick. Birmingham-Ibiza flight has also taken off 4 minutes ahead of schedule. Manchester-Ibiza flight will be the last to take off today.

[eggc]

Arriving MON's at MAN not even going to terminal. Last 2 got stand 249 and 71 respectively, which are both remote stands and never the case.

[MKY661]

G-OZBL also just parked on remote.

[AvGeek1]

G-OZBE also

[eggc]

To quote the pilot "that wasn't what I wanted to hear" when given 249.

[chaps1954]

Are the snow ploughs out? If this is the end so very sad

[KyleRB]

I don't work for Monarch but have friends there. Apparently staff were paid 2 days ago so they are solvent. However the ATOL cert may be the issue which is why the CAA has got involved. If that can be resolved the company can go on trading like any other.

[Wickerbill]

Kyle, I really don't understand your post!

[toledoashley]

Is it not coincidental that the new easyJet canaries routes from Luton started this week?

[Ceannairceach]

To quote the pilot "that wasn't what I wanted to hear" when given 249.
I expect the pilot on the RT said that with one eye on being able to get home quickly. Or not as the case may be from 249. I wouldn't attach any more importance than that to it.

[AvGeek1]

Does anyone know what the situation is at other Monarch bases apart from Manchester? I haven't see any evidence of their being any rescue flights heading for LTN tomorrow?

[L8RMT]

the United 744 currently at PMI is going to operate to BHX tomorrow at same time the Mon flight was due, if thats any use

[Runcorn Bridge]

I'm guessing that aircraft would have enough room for a BHX load and a LTN load if needs be.

[toledoashley]

Heard a suggestion of possibly an Air Transat 330/310.

[easyflyer83]

I expect the pilot on the RT said that with one eye on being able to get home quickly. Or not as the case may be from 249. I wouldn't attach any more importance than that to it.

I admire your optimism/denial. I really feel for the guy.

[AvGeek1]

The amount of Monarch flights in the air is gradually dwindling down...

[Fumble]

The Omni at LGW is currently parked up on a remote stand with ASL steps at the forward doors.

ASL is the ground handler for ZB at LGW.

[cornishsimon]

Isn't that normal at this time of night ? Avgeek1?

[Callum Paterson]

The amount of Monarch flights in the air is gradually dwindling down...

As is the case with every airline in Europe at this time of night...

Just saying.

[VickersVicount]

yes, as is remote evening parking and problems with buses from remote stands!

[Wickerbill]

Yes, it is whether tomorrow morning's flights take off. That is the question.

[AvGeek1]

The Manchester-Ibiza flight seems to be running late was supposed to depart at 23:30

[Runcorn Bridge]

Monarch normally has around 6 aircraft parked on T2 jetbridges at MAN for morning departures. If they are all being parked remotely this evening, that does not bode well for tomorrow morning. Something is going on out of the norm.

[EcamSurprise]

ZB are parking on terminal positions at LGW it seems.

[MKY661]

Parking at terminal as normal at LGW by the looks of things. G-OZBT & G-OZBX just did that.

[LBIA]

Understand both the LBA based aircraft have been parked remotely down the 20's
Do they normally get parked that far down the apron?

[LiamNCL]

All UAL flights now showing on Uniteds app by searching flight numbers

[Angeltransportpjcts]

Noticed lack of ZB / MON activity overnight on Flight Radar 24. MAN-IBZ and IBZ-BHX were operated and that was it. Both flights operated using Airbus A321 equipment.

[jfy1999]

Monarch flights are showing as open for check-in on the BHX and LBA websites.

[Fuel Crossfeed]

I think it is fair to say something is going on!
However in my experience (Laker, Air Europe, Excel) airlines that are about to allegedly go bust DO NOT organise repatriation flights from abroad and remote parking for current returning airborne flights.
Employees, those currently at work on flights, or on shift in the office and those it effects outside the company, passengers and contracted agents are the last to know !!
Management will always deny any rumours.

Also in my experience, the number of flights airlines operate reduce at night (except maybe cargo operators) and pilots are never happy parking on remote stands !!

In answer to a previous post, Monarchs payday is the 25th of each month unless that falls on a non working day, in which case it will be paid on the last working day before the 25th.

Let's just wait to see what happens, soon things will become clearer and fingers crossed there is a good outcome for all involved.

[kareem]

ZB297 is on the way to LGW. Due to land in about an hour.

ZB7982 has been assigned Gate 14 at LGW for a departure of 5.35am.

ZB220 has been assigned Gate 21 at LGW for a departure of 5.45am.

[LTNman]

Check-in desks numbers are now showing for this mornings Monarch flights at Luton. Just another day if I hadn't read this thread.

[jfy1999]

Reported elsewhere that gates 14 and 21 at LGW have been opened for their flights to LPA and PMI respectively.

[jfy1999]

ZB7982 to LPA now boarding at LGW gate 14.

So if the rumour is true, passengers won't find out until they're on the plane.

[jfy1999]

ZB220 to PMI now also boarding at LGW gate 21.

[jfy1999]

Last call for the LPA flight.

[jfy1999]

Flights at BHX are now boarding and we have last call for ZB932 to Tenerife.

[caaardiff]

Why on earth would passengers be allowed to check in and board? If ZB950 leaves BHX for PMI, what's the point in UA being down there? Will the ZB ac be allowed to operate the return? Would the ac be left in PMI and crew come back on UA? Crazy!

[Contact Approach]

Total codswallop.

[jfy1999]

G-OZBT has now departed on the LGW-LPA flight.

[compton3bravo]

Las Palma's flight OZBT now on it's way.

[Aluminium shuffler]

There was a campaign against them before, with a betting shop laying odds on them going bust a few years back. I think that was sabotage and subterfuge by a competitor. It could be that again, with no actual substance behind it. It could also be a financial and negotiations tactic if Jet2 really are positioning for a buyout. I hope it is, in respect that I'd hate to see people losing their jobs, but if it is, it is despicable behaviour by the rumour starter.

[jfy1999]

Flights to Palma and Dalaman now boarding at Manchester.

[toledoashley]

Palma flight just about to depart Gatwick.

[LTNman]

So there are a few here that have maybe putting 2 and 2 together and getting 5 to justify a rumour?

[LBIA]

Flight to DLM out of LBA now also boarding.

[wallp]

Flights operating normally this morning by all accounts. Rumours of this kind can be VERY damaging. I wish all at Monarch well and hope that the rumour mill stops!

[Hudson Bay]

0614 today:
A spokesman for Monarch said: "Over the weekend, there has been negative speculation about Monarch's financial health. Our flights are operating as normal, carrying Monarch passengers as scheduled. To weather tougher market conditions and to fund its ongoing growth, Monarch expects to announce a significant investment from its stakeholders in the coming days."

[jon01]

Monarch expects to announce a significant investment from its stakeholders in the coming days


Monarch airlines denies rumours of financial crisis | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-3807231/Monarch-Airlines-denies-rumours-financial-crisis.html)

[FANS]

If correct, that statement means there is a funding requirement and so Monarch's Twitter account that spoke of being unsure where these rumours emerged from and Confirming they are not true, could be considered stretching matters.

The other small matter is that as at now, they don't have the funds.

[crewmeal]

Monarch flights 932 and 982 have departed BHX on schedule. All this talk of them going into admin is not doing much for future bookings for the airline, therefore putting it in jeopardy.

Think of the employees folks.

[Tempsford]

Well said Aluminium Shuffler. I fail to understand anyone who takes pleasure in another persons misfortune. The airline industry is tenuous enough without such irresponsible behaviour. As an ex employee of Monarch and a person who still has members of my family employed with them, I wish them all the very best for the future.
Temps.

[plexus]

Are the charters still hanging about?

Wonder if a CAA charter order is enough to persuade the bank for some extra days of solvency?

If so, for the gov it's a no lose as it gives time to save the airline - and in the event it goes wrong then the planes to get people home are already there and paid for during the adminstration phase.

My best guess.

[Serenity]

Hope we see heartfelt apologies from those scaremongering last night!!

[Serenity]

Hope we now see heartfelt apologies from those scaremongering last night!!!!

[wondrousbitofrough]

Don't hold your breath!

[FANS]

I thought this was just a rumour until that statement came out.

It would take greybull very little time - and certainly not days - to put the funding in. Of course, that assumes they think it's worthwhile investing new money.

Releasing press statements that state we do have a problem and not yet a solution is adding to the flames.

[LiamNCL]

747 UA2281 PMI-BHX Cancelled

N120UA ORD-TFS enroute still

[Hudson Bay]

CAA spooked too soon?

[111KAB]

Monarch airlines says flights operating as normal - BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-37469743)

[LiamNCL]

Looks to me like one big over reaction and certainly undermindes the airline if so ! Pulling 747s out of service to sit on tarmac in Europe will not come cheap either.

[FANS]

There's reference on BBC to this money funding ATOL renewal, which was mentioned by someone .

[Brigantee]

All flights operating as normal this morning at brum

[Fumble]

With all these rumours in circulation and the U.K. Media covering the story, why have they not pulled Andrew Swaffield (CEO) into play? Would it not make sense to have him on TV/Radio to deny and squash the rumours? His words might play stronger than those of the FaceBook/Twitter person at ZB or a press release.

[mudcity]

There is no doubt that the CAA have put wide bodies on standby across Europe in case MON were unable to continue trading.....obviously a deal has been done or is being done which keeps the CAA happy with regard to MON continuing. Let's hope MON now has a great opportunity to build going forward for the sake of all who work there.

[Tom Bangla]

Fumble, he's probably been up all night talking with the banks.

[mudcity]

There is no doubt that the CAA have put wide bodies on standby across Europe in case MON were unable to continue trading.....obviously a deal has been done or is being done which keeps the CAA happy with regard to MON continuing. Let's hope MON now has a great opportunity to build going forward for the sake of all who work there.

[FANS]

It is now clear that there was substance to this rumour and the group requires additional funding, and according to the BBC was in talks with the CAA overnight around ATOL renewal.

Needless to say, it's Twitter account tweets didn't feel it right to let the customers know this.

When booking your flights on Google, you'll find the Monarch link under the link which says that Monarch denies it's going bust!

[billyg]

Jerry Scott, a Business Live reader, has landed at Manchester airport on another airline. He says staff on his flight told him:

"Monarch engineers were tipped off at 3pm yesterday and went and got their tools before they were to be impounded. Planes at Manchester and Birmingham on remote stands and watched over by security."

[Malchester]

As I read the situation it seems Monarch were all set to cease trading after all flights arrived back last night but overnight talks seem to have given a hope of some funding to pay for the ATOL licence hence the flights going ahead today. I hope they succeed as I like flying with them for comfort and one of the best crews around.

[Skipness One Echo]

Winter beckons and confidence in forward bookings died last night. Greybull will likely not see an ROI without ploughing even more in. They don't seem keen IMHO.

I would not book with Monarch going forward for a long time, would you? If they make it to the summer, it would be a huge achievement. There are just safer options that Joe Public knows equally as well for a similar price point.

[FANS]

Whatever funding it might have required on Friday night will now increase given some customers will hold off booking and suppliers will get more nervous.

This has been badly managed by the company, and the standby flights organising did not take into account plane spotters technology!

[FANS]

Greybull could have put the money in last week and none of this would have come up.

They could put it in by 9am and announce accordingly.

Alternatively, they could do nothing.

[Malchester]

Very difficult one for the company. Clearly there were / still are problems. Do they deny and hope for a solution (which they did) or do they admit it and commit commercial suicide?

[FANS]

I think it's very simple . Put the money in and play ball with the CAA, rather than what seems to have been overnight brinkmanship talks and chat of raising money.

The staff may be fantastic but they have no idea what's really going on, and so why would anyone book a flight with these guys unless it was a lot cheaper .

[Livesinafield]

I don't think these where just vicious rumours, something was definitely going to happen this morning, and for whatever reason thankfully now it isn't..

[eggc]

Wonder who is footing the bill for all the charters already in place ? The CAA it'll be, bet they are less than pleased and might not react in the same way next time they are given a heads up.

[FANS]

Let's also not forget that understandably there's still been no press release that these charter flights were to do with Monarch .

[Wickerbill]

Look at the positioning and flight numbers, Fans. It certainly was Monarch.

[Tom Bangla]

Wonder who is footing the bill for all the charters already in place ? The CAA it'll be, bet they are less than pleased and might not react in the same way next time they are given a heads up.
You'd imagine the government is involved in this in some way too. The last thing they'd want is an established airline going down to add to speculation over Brexit and the health of the economy.

[billyg]

And this on the Beeb

CAA talks



Monarch Airlines has been in talks with the Civil Aviation Authority overnight.

We do not know exactly why that is the case, but there is considerable discussion on aviation blogs that planes operated by other airlines have been lined up to bring back passengers from holiday destinations this week.

[FANS]

Not disagreeing wickerbill - it just makes me laugh when monarch's Twitter tweets These are rumours and completely untrue . Yet don't disclose they're in all night talks with CAA, there's charter aircraft on standby across Europe and they're in the midst of an emergency fund raise !!

[eggc]

The 2nd United Jumbo left Chicago for Tenerife, got as far as New York and turned back. I'd still rather pay for these charters to be in position and then unused than pay to use them an MON gone :)

[FANS]

Could well be government involvement and suggesting very strongly that the CAA don't take a full risk adjusted bonding price for ATOL.

Equally, greybull may know government well following their Tata steel involvement (although ministers have changed).

[KelvinD]

For what it is worth, a couple of minutes ago Monarch had 28 flights in the air. They were all Monarch aircraft, not chartered etc. Given their fleet numbers 35 aircraft, it looks as if they are operating as one would expect.

[gtf]

So there are a few here that have maybe putting 2 and 2 together and getting 5 to justify a rumour?
United, Miami Air, Omni filed schedules matching exactly Monarch. If you believe that adds up to 5, it must be quite the coincidence.

More likely last-minute divine intervention kept Monarch in the air.

[LiamNCL]

United 747 still enroute to TFS and hasnt turned back.

[gtf]

The 2nd United Jumbo left Chicago for Tenerife, got as far as New York and turned back.
Still on its way.

[ATNotts]

United, Miami Air, Omni filed schedules matching exactly Monarch. If you believe that adds up to 5, it must be quite the coincidence.

More likely last-minute divine intervention kept Monarch in the air.
Can we stop this irresponsible speculation - enough damage has been done already. I would suggest Monarch turn their attention towards to people perpetrating / perpetuating this story.

[galaxy68]

All "holiday" airlines (and tour operators) like Monarch, are usually highly profitable during the summer and loss making during the winter. Even the village idiot should be able to make hay in summer. To me this smacks of Greybull trying to pull the plug at the most opportune time of year for them, after siphoning off the summers earnings and before the annual winter loss arrives.

[Enos]

Passed point of no return??

Crew probably looking forward to a change of scenery as well.

Will the CAA foot the bill for these charters? They're not known for their generosity.

[ATNotts]

Winter beckons and confidence in forward bookings died last night. Greybull will likely not see an ROI without ploughing even more in. They don't seem keen IMHO.

I would not book with Monarch going forward for a long time, would you? If they make it to the summer, it would be a huge achievement. There are just safer options that Joe Public knows equally as well for a similar price point.
As an analyst, do you not think that keeping your opinions to yourself might be the better course of action; or do you relish the idea of putting several hundred people out of work?

[Nemrytter]

Can we stop this irresponsible speculation - enough damage has been done already. I would suggest Monarch turn their attention towards to people perpetrating / perpetuating this story.:ok:
All this rumour mongering is bloody silly, from about 3 pieces of disconnected (and possibly irrelevant) information some people have managed to concoct a massive faff.

[Heathrow Harry]

Business - BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business)

Budget airline Monarch says its flights are operating as normal following "negative speculation" about the firm's financial health over the weekend.

Monarch said it was "trading well" despite a difficult period for the industry because of terrorist incidents, Brexit and the weak pound.

It added that a significant investment would be announced in the coming days.

Over the weekend Monarch denied speculation that the company was going bust. A spokesperson said they had no idea where the rumours were coming from but that there "were not true". Speculation about its alleged collapse surfaced from customers on the company's Twitter feed.

Monarch said on Monday it expected to make more than £40m in underlying earnings by the end of its financial year in October.

Atol protection

It said in a statement: "Our flights are operating as normal, carrying Monarch passengers as scheduled. "To weather tougher market conditions and to fund its ongoing growth, Monarch expects to announce a significant investment from its stakeholders in the coming days." The airline is protected by the Air Traffic Organisers' Licensing (Atol) scheme (http://www.caa.co.uk/ATOL-protection/Consumers/About-ATOL/) - a government scheme which refunds customers if a travel firm collapses, and ensures they are not stranded. Earlier this year Low Cost Holidays collapsed, without Atol protection, leaving 27,000 customers abroad.

Monarch employs around 2,800 staff and is based at Luton airport.
Investment firm Greybull Capital bought a 90% stake in Monarch in 2014. It also bought a division of Tata Steel this year, as well as 140 M Local convenience stores from Morrisons, which subsequently went into administration.

[Heathrow Harry]

Business - BBC News http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-37469743 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business)

Budget airline Monarch says its flights are operating as normal following "negative speculation" about the firm's financial health over the weekend.

Monarch said it was "trading well" despite a difficult period for the industry because of terrorist incidents, Brexit and the weak pound.

It added that a significant investment would be announced in the coming days.

Over the weekend Monarch denied speculation that the company was going bust. A spokesperson said they had no idea where the rumours were coming from but that there "were not true". Speculation about its alleged collapse surfaced from customers on the company's Twitter feed.

Monarch said on Monday it expected to make more than £40m in underlying earnings by the end of its financial year in October.

Atol protection

It said in a statement: "Our flights are operating as normal, carrying Monarch passengers as scheduled. "To weather tougher market conditions and to fund its ongoing growth, Monarch expects to announce a significant investment from its stakeholders in the coming days." The airline is protected by the Air Traffic Organisers' Licensing (Atol) scheme (http://www.caa.co.uk/ATOL-protection/Consumers/About-ATOL/) - a government scheme which refunds customers if a travel firm collapses, and ensures they are not stranded. Earlier this year Low Cost Holidays collapsed, without Atol protection, leaving 27,000 customers abroad.

Monarch employs around 2,800 staff and is based at Luton airport.
Investment firm Greybull Capital bought a 90% stake in Monarch in 2014. It also bought a division of Tata Steel this year, as well as 140 M Local convenience stores from Morrisons, which subsequently went into administration.

[galaxy68]

It is hardly rumouring or scaremongering when extra aircraft actually arrive and flight plans put in for the next few days... it is fact.

[Twiglet1]

If its just malicious gossip then it's having an effect.
On airliners.net someone has posted they work in a call centre and have been readied for an airline collapse.
Airplanes coming in from USA. Schedules being made (i always thought US airlines filed on the day from experience)
Surely there must be lift available in Europe?
Monarchs aircraft being parked on remote stands at MAN (is this normal - its cheaper )

I hope its just a wind up but the pace of the world wide web is more like the wild wild west