An airline chief was the guest speaker at the latest meeting of the City of Newport Business Club.

Paul Willoughby, regional sales manager for Flybe, gave a wide-ranging talk about his career in the travel industry to Newport businesses on November 22.

Mr Willoughby, who has worked in a variety of roles for Flybe since 2001, was speaking at the Via Julia Suite at the Celtic Manor golf club.

He took guests on a whistle-stop tour of Flybe’s history, from its early days in the 1970s as Jersey European Airways to its current position as Europe’s largest regional independent airline.

He also spoke about the potential impact on Flybe and other airlines of Brexit.

Mr Willoughby told the audience about Flybe’s recent review of strategic options, which includes the potential sale of the company.

And he explained the company’s FlyShe campaign, which aims to inspire more women to become airline pilots.

City of Newport Business Club committee member Kevin Ward, who hosted the meeting in the absence of chairman Professor Jonathan Deacon, said: “Paul gave a fascinating insight into the airline industry and Flybe’s impact on, and future in, the sector.

“We’re sure all our sponsors and their guests enjoyed the evening.”

The club’s next meeting is planned for February 21 at the same venue with speaker details due to be announced in the new year.

Information about how to become a member or sponsor of the City of Newport Business Club are also available on the website.