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Kent MP has urged stranded Flybe passengers in Britain and abroad not to return to airports for advice on how to get home as other measures have been put in place.
Rochester and Stood MP, Kelly Tolhurst - parliamentary under secretary of state at Department for Transport - made a statement earlier today on what government help is available to manage disruption caused by the airline company's collapse.
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Flybe ceased trading overnight after troubles with its finances. The company said this was caused by decline in bookings and increased competition. Coronavirus also played a role as the demand for flights has dropped in the last few days.
Around 15,000 passengers were meant to fly with the airline today and many more in the coming weeks and months.
Miss Tolhurst said the Department for Transport is working with airlines to provide rescue flights for Flybe passengers. EasyJet has confirmed it will provide emergency flights for those affected until the end of May.
The Rail Delivery Group has also confirmed all operators will offer free travel to Flybe staff and passengers for a week free of charge.
Miss Tolhurst, the under-secretary for the Department for Transport said: "Unfortunately, in a competitive market, some companies do fail and it is not the role of government to prop them up.
"Given the time of the year, the nature of Flybe's business, fleet and the routes it flies, sufficient alternative transport should be available, either by other airlines or by road and rail.
"For passengers due to fly with Flybe in the next few days, I would ask they do not turn up at the airport. They should instead please look at the website set up by the Civil Aviation Authority and to talk to their travel agents, travel insurance providers and credit card companies."
She also assured passengers arriving in the UK there will be government representatives available to offer support and information.
Special arrangements have also been made for the 2,000 crew, engineers, technicians and staff at Flybe HQ who lost their jobs this morning.
Those who are owed redundancy payments can go to the government's Insolvency Service which can pay a certain amount to former employees from the national insurance fund.
She added: "We understand that this is a worrying time for workers and their families and the Department for Work and Pensions stands ready to support any one who is effected by the closure.
"A rapid response service offer will be available to all those affected at their local job centre plus outlets."
Miss Tolhurst added the government will continue to work with airlines to fill routes and manage the impact coronavirus will have on the industry.
She added: "Globally, aviation is facing challenges due to the impact of coronavirus. The government is well prepared for this and as the wider economic picture becomes clearer the chancellor has said he stands ready to announce further support where needed."
If you are someone who has been stranded by the Flybe going bust or lost your job, please email news@thekmgroup.co.uk.
