Thomas Cook- will other airlines take on their routes?

[TuckMyWin]

So, I had Thomas Cook flights booked for next year. I'm in the fortunate position of being able to claim back via my credit card, and have time to sort something else. But I'm not sure whether to wait to rebook. The flights I had were the only ones I could find from a convenient airport at a convenient time. Does anyone know if another airline is likely to quickly take on that route at the same (or similar) time? I'm not sure whether to wait, in the hope this will happen, or just suck it up and book something less convenient now? I can imagine the airport would want the slot filled, but I'm not sure if it's likely to be the same route that fills it, iyswim?

I would imagine so, yes. My nearest airport is Birmingham which was a hub for Monarch Airlines. After Monarch went bust, Jet2 announced that they were launching lots of new routes from Birmingham which were destinations previously served by Monarch.

I would expect that most will. Just hope that none of them are taken on by Ryanair.

Ryanair have one of the best on time records, and are in a better financial position (so less likely to go bust) than pretty much all European airlines!

In answer to your question, it depends on how profitable the route is and the availability of aircraft with the correct positioning. Many airlines are still impacted by the Max8 aircraft difficulties, so struggling to manage their existing routes let alone take on more. Plus Brexit uncertainty, recession looking likely, all things that will affect their decision.

Routes yes but I would not count on flights being similar days/times.

I imagine so. easyJet or Ryan air will nab some. People slate easyJet but I've never had a flight delayed with them.

Few of the airports used by Thomas Cook (London airports being an exception) were running at capacity so there may be little incentive for other airlines to take the slots.

BTW, Ryanair operate a different system to other EU/UK airlines ti measure their time keeping and punctuality, so you cannot compare like with like.