Flybaboo was founded by Julian Cook in August 2003 following Swissair’s decision to abandon the Geneva-Lugano route. The first flight to Lugano took place on November 3, 2003 with a Cirrus airlines aircraft. In May 2004 the airline obtained its AOC (Air Operator Certificate) licence from the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), allowing it to operate with its own aircraft - a 50-seat Dash 8-Q300 leased from the manufacturer, Bombardier Aerospace.
Flybaboo has grown constantly ever since. From 20 employees in its early days, it numbered nearly 190 at October 1, 2008. It currently serves 18 destinations (Charters excluded) from Geneva, which breaks down into permanent and seasonal destinations.
Among the major developments, the recent equity increase amounting to 9.2 million Euros, which was subscribed in 2007, enabled the management to devise a sound growth strategy and to give the company a new dimension. At the end of 2007 Flybaboo posted a turnover of 18.4 million Euros. Nearly 500,000 passengers were carried between November 2003 and December 2007. As for the fleet, which currently consists of two Bombardier Aerospace Dash 8-Q400s, it has been supplemented in May and June 2008 by the arrival of three Embraer 190s, which will be followed by three other similar aircraft in spring 2009.
Baboo offers a very wide range of products and services. In addition to the various fare options for private individuals and companies and tailored packages, the airline has just launched its “Flexi fares” range of products with Baboo Saver, Baboo Twist and Baboo Smart. Baboo is thus able to meet the needs of both private customers and business travellers.
Last March the airline announced the arrival of Jacques Bankir as CEO. After five years at the controls of Flybaboo, Julian Cook was appointed chairman of the Board of Directors.
In May Flybaboo is changing its image and name to become Baboo. A new red and white vertical logo positions the brand more strongly, more visibly and in a more differentiated manner.
