Carlisle-based aviation, energy and transport firm Stobart Group said on Thursday its Stobart Air business has secured an agreement to provide new aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) services for BA CityFlyer.

Stobart Group has recently been consumed by a lengthy boardroom battle.

“The arrangement between the two airlines will see Stobart Air provide ACMI services for the purpose of operating routes to and from London City Airport under the BA CityFlyer brand from 16 November,” said Stobart Group.

Stobart Air said it will hire 40 new people — 10 captains and first officers and 30 cabin crew.

Stobart Air will lease two Embraer 190 jet aircraft under a three-year lease agreement with Republic of Ireland-based Nordic Aviation Capital to service the new routes.

Stobart Air MD Graeme Buchanan said: “A key part of our growth strategy is to secure additional commercial relationships with airlines.

“This agreement with BA CityFlyer allows us to further diversify the brands we work with.

“Stobart Air is recognised within the industry for its operational excellence and quality of customer service, and this deal demonstrates that we can continue to leverage this reputation to grow our business and secure further commercial relationships.”