FLYBE boss Jim French has called on the government to invest in low-fare services to boost regional regeneration across the UK.
He said: "Low-fare airlines have a key contribution to make to the regeneration of regions, and a government policy should create the economic conditions to enable them to flourish."
Flybe, which has made Southampton airport its regional hub with national and international flights, believes low-cost airlines drive in-bound tourism and investment.
Mr French's speech came at a Labour Party conference fringe meeting, where he shared a platform with transport minister Tony McNulty.
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