UK regional airline Eastern Airways has suspended operations and cancelled all flights, with passengers being urged to find alternative travel arrangements.
The carrier, which is based at Humberside Airport and has been operating since 1997, is reported to have filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator on Monday (27 October).
The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed in a statement that Eastern Airways suspended operations on Monday and urged passengers not to go to the airport as flights would not be operating.
The CAA said Eastern Airways’ passengers should “make their own alternative travel arrangements via other airlines, rail or coach operators”.
Eastern Airways serves routes across the UK, including scheduled flights from Aberdeen, London Gatwick, Teesside International and Newquay, as well as providing charter services for the energy sector and leading sports teams.
Scottish carrier Loganair said it would provide support to Eastern Airways’ passengers “in any way we can”, including the launch of a “rescue fare” on the Aberdeen-Kirkwall and Aberdeen-Sumburgh routes in Scotland.
Train companies TransPennine Express, LNER, Northern and ScotRail will also offer free standard class travel to Eastern Airways' passengers and staff on Tuesday and Wednesday (28-29 October) on “reasonable routes to complete their journeys”.
Clive Wratten, CEO of the Business Travel Association (BTA), said: “Our members supported more than 1,600 Eastern Airways passengers this year, meaning we anticipate a major effect on both business and leisure travel - especially on vital routes between the North East and Aberdeen, and Gatwick and Newquay.
“This suspension of operations underscores the urgent need for regional investment for travel infrastructure. With already limited domestic air connectivity, the loss of Eastern Airways further isolates key parts of the UK and limits choice for travellers.”