EasyJet executive quits after weeks of turmoil and flight cancellations
EasyJet is parting ways with its chief operating officer, after weeks of turmoil and last-minute cancellations hit the airline’s reputation for reliability and customer service.
The airline said Peter Bellew had resigned “to pursue other business opportunities” after two and a half years in the role. Bellew joined from rival Ryanair shortly before the pandemic, in a move that the Irish airline attempted to block in court.
However, his star has since waned and senior executive level changes had been looming since the chairof easyJet, Stephen Hester, started taking closer charge in response to the crisis. Problems at its main base at Gatwick, in particular, led to the airline cancelling hundreds of flights at the last moment during the half-term holidays.
David Morgan, who was interim COO before Bellew’s appointment, will step up to the role again.
Johan Lundgren, the airline’s chief executive, said: “Everyone at easyJet remains absolutely focused on delivering a safe and reliable operation this summer.
“[Morgan] has significant experience and deep knowledge of the business and operation and will provide strong leadership for the airline this summer.”
Last month, easyJet cancelled about 11,000 flights from its summer schedule, reducing overall capacity from 97% of pre-pandemic levels to about 90%.
The entire aviation industry has been affected by labour shortages, from ground handling to air traffic control. This has left airlines struggling to meet demand after travel restrictions in the UK and elsewhere were lifted earlier this year.
EasyJet’s executive team will be meeting in Palma, Mallorca, this week to discuss plans for the crisis-hit summer. A spokesperson said it was “entirely appropriate for the management board to
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