The Steam Packet says it has plenty of excess seats available for passengers affected by Flybe’s collapse.

A spokesman said the company was ’sorry to hear the news about airline Flybe entering into administration and appreciates the anxiety some travellers will now be facing’.

The Steam Packet has arranged for extra reservations staff to be on duty to assist with telephone enquiries for any passengers who are affected.

Chief executive Mark Woodward said: ’Naturally Flybe’s decision to stop trading is distressing for all of its employees and customers. For those now faced with making new travel arrangements, we want to reassure passengers there is considerable excess capacity on most scheduled sailings throughout the year.

’The company has already received a lot of website enquiries and, where practical, we will also increase capacity on sailings to ensure the needs of islanders are met.

’We will continue to monitor the situation on a regular basis and remain in contact with the Isle of Man patient transport department to provide ongoing assistance.’