Eastern Airways has cancelled flights and halted ticket sales and there are reports the airline has filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator.
Aviation analyst Sean Moulton posted on X around lunchtime on Monday (27 October) that the airline had cancelled all scheduled flights for the day, adding no reason had been given.
Sean later posted to say: “Eastern Airways has issued a notice to appoint an administrator. This will impact jobs across the UK, but especially in Humberside, Aberdeen and Newquay.”
The Civil Aviation Authority issued a statement on Monday afternoon confirming the airline has suspended operations. Its Consumer and Markets Director Selina Chadha said: “We urge passengers planning to fly with this airline not to go to the airport as all Eastern Airways flights are cancelled.”
The CAA statement added: “Eastern Airways, which operated regional services from airports across the United Kingdom, has suspended operations.
“All Eastern Airways operated flights are now cancelled. Eastern Airways customers are therefore urged to make their own alternative travel arrangements via other airlines, rail or coach operators.”
The CAA said LNER, ScotRail, TransPennine Express and Northern train companies will offer free standard class travel to Eastern Airways staff and customers on Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 October, on suitable routes. Loganair said it is introducing a rescue fare on its Aberdeen-Kirkwall and Aberdeen-Sumburgh routes ‘to assist affected Eastern Airways customers in reaching their destinations with minimal disruption’.
The CAA statement also gives advice on how customers may be able to claim money back. It said customers who booked through an airline ticket agent should speak to the agent in the first instance. See the full CAA statement here.
The Independent reports ticket sales continued until noon on Monday but then ceased and aircraft have been returned to leasing companies.
“It appears likely that Eastern Airways is to close after 28 years,” it added.
Eastern Airways, based in Humberside Airport, North Lincolnshire, operated three routes from Aberdeen, to Teeside, Humberside and Wick. The Wick route was supported by the Scottish Government as a Public Service Obligation (PSO) route. Eastern Airways operated another PSO route, between London Gatwick and Newquay.
The airline also operated charter flights.
The Independent reports it understands Cornwall Council is urgently seeking a replacement carrier and says an airline could be named within days.
Eastern Airways launched in 1997 and carries around 1.3 million passengers each year.
Loganair CEO Luke Farajallah posted on LinkedIn to say: “I am deeply saddened to hear reports that Eastern Airways (UK) Ltd may be entering administration and that it has suspended all its operations. For decades, Eastern Airways has been an important part of the UK’s regional aviation story, serving communities with dedication, connecting people and places often beyond the reach of larger airlines, and doing so with a true spirit of service.
“The news will be deeply unsettling for everyone at Eastern, from flight crews and engineers to operations and customer service teams. These are professionals who have given so much to keep Britain connected through some of the most challenging times our industry has ever seen.
“Loganair Limited will be offering rescue fares for stranded passengers, as well as offering jobs for suitably qualified professionals.”
Eastern Airways employees can email crewrecruitment@loganair.co.uk.
Travel Gossip has contacted Eastern Airways for a comment.
