Condolences pour in for Emirates founding CEO

Dubai: Condolences continue to pour in for aviation legend Sir Maurice Flanagan, the founding CEO of Emirates and former executive vice-chairman of the airline, who died on Thursday at the age of 86 after battling cancer.

Sir Maurice passed away peacefully at his home in London surrounded by his family and loved ones, said a statement released by Emirates.

His legacy, influence, and contribution to building Emirate’s airline and in developing the global aviation industry will not be forgotten, said those who knew him.

Gaith Al Gaith, Chief Executive Officer of flydubai, said in a statement: “It is with much sadness that we learnt that Sir Maurice Flanagan died yesterday [Thursday]. He was a great mentor, generous with sharing his knowledge and experience with all those who were fortunate to work with him. He exemplified the rare combination of commercial and human qualities.‎

“The contribution he made to the development and growth of the UAE’s aviation industry is greatly valued. I will always be thankful for the support he has given me throughout my career as well as for his friendship. The flydubai team joins me in sending Lady Flanagan and their family our condolences.”

Sir Maurice is survived by his wife Audrey, his son Julian, and his daughters Siobhan and Claire.

Sending his condolences to the family, Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, said Sir Maurice will be missed.

“We are very sad to hear of the passing of Maurice Flanagan, our thoughts and prayers are with Audrey and the family. Maurice was such an important figure in the growth and success of Emirates airline and of Dubai itself. He cared deeply about the airline and about its people. He had a great instinct when it came to recognising talent, which is reflected in the management team at Emirates now. He loved Dubai and the ruling family and was personally committed to supporting so many events that would raise the profile of the UAE. Maurice was also a great family man and had strong family values. He will be remembered with much admiration and affection from so many people here in Dubai and beyond. We will miss him.”

Earlier, Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group said: “The Emirates Group, and Dubai, has lost a great friend today. Maurice was a man of great character, and a legend in the aviation industry. He was generous with his time, forthright in his views, and a person who gave 110 per cent to everything he did. It was a great personal pleasure and privilege to have worked with him. On behalf of all Emirates Group staff, I express our condolences to his wife Audrey, his son Julian, and his daughters Siobhan and Claire. His contributions to dnata, Emirates, and Dubai, will always be remembered.”