Manx2 Defends Crash Compensation Move

The airline linked to last week's deadly incident in Cork - when a plane tragically crash-landed in fog and killed half of the 12 people on board - has said it is not responsible for the applications of compensation, as the aircraft involved was on lease.

One week on from the incident, it emerged that solicitors acting on behalf of one of the survivors were seeking payment of around €15,000 to cover costs of "humanitarian support" to Mark Dickens, who was to be transferred to the UK from Cork University Hospital after being injured in the crash in which six people died.

However, lawyers for the airline have written to Mr Dicken's law team stating the claim should be forwarded to the Spanish operators of the aircraft, Flightline BCN SL.

Last night, the Manx2 Chief Executive Noel Hayes said that Manx2 was acting only as a "ticket provider or booking office" and that the plane was owned by Spanish airline Airlada and operated by Spanish company Flightline.

Mr Hayes said his company chartered aircraft from European Air Operators Certificate holders under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) contract and as such any claims should be made against Flightline BCN.

"This kind of arrangement is common in the aviation industry and ensures the necessary cover for passengers and their families in the event of such awful circumstances," he said.

The two pilots and four passengers died when the aircraft turned upside down on landing following an approach in fog. There were six survivors. Since the accident Manx2 has cancelled its contract with Flightline.

(DW)