"Baby Branson" Martin Halstead may only be 23 years, but he already has two failed airline projects under his belt. One never flew. The other got a little futher, operating just 11 flights before suspending services after just one week. Aviation can be a harsh teacher.
Halstead's latest venture, Varsity Express, launched operations between the UK cities of Oxford and Edinburgh on 1 March, using a Jetstream 31. It suspended flights on 8 March.
The airline says this was caused by "operational issues" with its AOC provider and it is seeking alternatives.
But some newspaper reports are non too flattering about Halstead. For instance, The Times refers to the venture as a "bogus business", reporting that Halstead has admitted to basing the company on a number of false claims.
Halstead was 18 when he attempted to set up his first airline venture in 2005, but Alpha One Airways never flew.
I can't help but think that it will be a while before we hear from the former teen entrepreneur again.
on March 26, 2010 10:47 AM | Reply
Give the guy a break. He has spotted a real market in east west traffic between two cities that should be more intergrated. I think the RDA should fund the project. He wouldnt be the first aviation entrepreneur with a great idea to be rediculed.
on June 22, 2010 9:42 PM | Reply
Yes, give the guy a break. This man has singlehandedly put London Oxford Airport on the map. Come back, Martin. We want:
London Oxford Airport to Barrow in Furness
London Oxford Airport to Helgoland
London Oxford Airport to Rockall.
All well suited to a J-31. I'll pay you heaps for a type rating.