Newcastle Airport Honours Football Icon

Kevin Keegan has joined such footballing luminaries as George Best and Matt le Tissier in having an aircraft named after him.

Flybe's Newcastle-born chief commercial officer, Mike Rutter, unveiled the Bombardier Q400 aircraft at a special naming ceremony in the presence of Kevin Keegan and members of his family.

The plane – which carries the registration KKEV – is one of the most fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly short-haul planes in the sky and forms the backbone of Flybe's fleet.

Mr Rutter said: "With our services from Newcastle International Airport and work in the community, we felt drawn to make our own special contribution to one of this country's sporting heroes and an icon to the people of Newcastle.

"Dedicating an aircraft seemed the most appropriate tribute and from today The Kevin Keegan will be in active service on the Newcastle to London Gatwick route and as part of the Flybe network throughout the UK and Europe."

Speaking at the event, Kevin Keegan said: "I'm genuinely touched that Flybe have named one of their aircraft after me.

"Newcastle is such an important place to me; the club, the fans and the city have all given me so much so I am thrilled that Flybe are giving something back to them with this unique aircraft that many a Geordie will be able to fly on over the years."

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