Eastern Airways has suspended operations and cancelled all flights, with other airlines and rail companies stepping in to help affected passengers.
The UK regional airline operated flights to Aberdeen, London Gatwick, Teesside International and Newquay. It also ran charter services for energy companies and sports teams.
Based at Humberside Airport, Eastern Airways was launched in 1997 but filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator on Monday.
The airline was previously owned by the airport before being sold to Orient Industrial Holdings Ltd in 2019.
Commentators on social media suggest a loss of a regional agreement with KLM was a key factor in Eastern Airways’ financial problems.
The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) told passengers not to go to the airport as flights would not be operating.
Loganair has launched a rescue fare on the Aberdeen-Kirkwall and Aberdeen-Sumburgh routes while Ryanair has stepped in with a special fare on the Gatwick-Newquay route.
TransPennine Express, LNER, Northern and ScotRail are offering free standard class travel to affected passengers and Eastern Airways staff until the end of today (Wednesday) on “reasonable routes to complete their journeys”.
Clive Wratten, BTA CEO, 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.”
