Eastern Airways is facing a potential collapse, putting numerous jobs at risk. The airline recently appointed administrators, a move that provides up to ten days of legal protection from creditors. This period allows the company to explore restructuring options or prepare for insolvency.
Impact on Flights and Passengers
As a result of this situation, all Eastern Airways flights have been cancelled. Key cancellations included flights from Newquay to London Gatwick and from Teesside to Aberdeen. Passengers should be aware of the following cancelled flights:
- 07:00 GMT from Newquay to London Gatwick
- 18:15 from Teesside to Aberdeen
- 14:30 from Aberdeen to Wick
- 16:45 from Aberdeen to Teesside
Selina Chadha, the Consumer and Markets Director of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), has advised customers against going to the airport. She emphasized that all Eastern Airways flights are cancelled and urged affected passengers to make alternative travel arrangements.
Alternative Travel Options
To assist stranded passengers, several rail services are offering free travel. The following companies are participating:
- London North Eastern Railway
- Scotrail
- TransPennine Express
- Northern Railway
This offer is valid for suitable routes on Tuesday and Wednesday. Additionally, Scottish regional airline Loganair has introduced special fares for passengers needing to fly from Aberdeen to Kirkwall or Sumburgh until October 30.
Financial Challenges of Eastern Airways
Founded in 1997, Eastern Airways is one of the last remaining regional airlines in the UK. Based at Humberside Airport in North Lincolnshire, it operates flights from several locations, including East Midlands, Jersey, Manchester, Newcastle, Newquay, and Southampton, as well as Esbjerg in Denmark.
The airline has experienced financial difficulties, particularly following the Covid pandemic, which led to a decrease in passenger numbers. Eastern Airways has also been an important operator in the North Sea offshore oil and gas sector, connecting key cities like Aberdeen and Wick.
Next Steps for Affected Passengers
Passengers who booked their flights with credit, debit, or charge cards are encouraged to reach out to their card issuers. They may be able to initiate a chargeback claim for the cancelled flights.
Eastern Airways has been contacted for further comments regarding the ongoing situation. The outcome of the current proceedings will greatly impact the future of the airline and employment for its staff.
