Eastern Airways suspends flights and faces collapse

Monday, 27 October 2025 19:00

Regional airline Eastern Airways, which operates the Newquay to London Gatwick route, has suspended all flights and is reportedly on the verge of collapse.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed on Monday the airline had halted operations, with all services cancelled.

The carrier operates six routes across the UK, including connections from Humberside, Aberdeen and Newquay.

Earlier in the day, Eastern Airways filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator, a legal step that gives the business up to 10 days of protection from creditors while it explores rescue options or prepares for insolvency.

The company was founded in 1997 and is based at Humberside Airport in North Lincolnshire.

In a statement, the CAA said:
“Eastern Airways, which operated regional services from airports across the United Kingdom, has suspended operations. All Eastern Airways operated flights are now cancelled. Therefore, please do not go to the airport as flights will not be operating.

“Eastern Airways customers are therefore urged to make their own alternative travel arrangements via other airlines, rail or coach operators.”

Selina Chadha, Consumer and Markets Director at the CAA, added:
“We urge passengers planning to fly with this airline not to go to the airport as all Eastern Airways flights are cancelled. Eastern Airways customers should visit the Civil Aviation Authority’s website for the latest information.”

The leader of Cornwall Council, Councillor Leigh Frost, has confirmed there will be a short-term loss of air service between Cornwall and London.

Councillor Frost said the council was aware of the situation and that plans to appoint a new operator were already in progress.

He said: “Eastern’s contract was coming to an end, and therefore the process to appoint a new operator is already well underway. There will be a short-term loss of service of around a month until an interim provider is in place, but we hope to have new arrangements confirmed shortly to ensure this vital air link continues to connect Cornwall with the capital.”

The route operates under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) agreement, which ensures a regular air link between Cornwall and London is maintained.