UK regional carrier Eastern Airways has suspended all operations and is on the brink of collapse, putting hundreds of jobs across Britain and Europe at risk.
The airline, based at Humberside Airport in North Lincolnshire, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators on Monday. This move gives it up to 10 days of protection from creditors while it explores rescue options or prepares for insolvency proceedings.
“We urge passengers planning to fly with this airline not to go to the airport as all Eastern Airways flights are cancelled,” said Selina Chadha, the CAA’s consumer and markets director.
The regulator advised travelers to seek alternative transport. Rail companies including London North Eastern Railway, ScotRail, TransPennine Express, and Northern Railway will offer free standard-class travel to affected passengers and staff on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Airport departure boards showed widespread cancellations on Monday, including the 7 a.m. flight from Newquay to London Gatwick, the 2:30 p.m. service from Aberdeen to Wick, and the 6:15 p.m. flight from Teesside to Aberdeen.
Scottish airline Loganair announced it would offer stranded passengers discounted airfares on flights between Aberdeen and Kirkwall or Sumburgh through October 30.
Passengers who booked directly with Eastern Airways are advised to contact their credit or debit card issuers to seek chargebacks for cancelled flights, the CAA said.
Founded in 1997, Eastern Airways operated regional routes across the UK, Ireland, and Europe. It also ran subsidized services backed by the Scottish government, connecting Aberdeen with Wick and John O’Groats — a lifeline route for residents in the northernmost part of mainland Britain.
The carrier’s network included flights from East Midlands, Jersey, Manchester, Newcastle, Newquay, and Southampton, as well as Esbjerg in Denmark. It was also active in the North Sea oil and gas industry, ferrying workers between energy hubs such as Aberdeen, Humberside, and Teesside.
Like other regional airlines, Eastern Airways has struggled financially since the COVID-19 pandemic, hit by lower passenger demand and rising fuel and maintenance costs.
The Post has sought comment from Eastern Airways regarding the situation.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/27/business/uk-airline-eastern-airways-suspends-operations-in-face-of-collapse/