London, United Kingdom: UK regional carrier Eastern Airways has suspended all flight operations and filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, marking another major setback for Britain’s struggling regional aviation sector.
The airline, which operated key domestic routes connecting smaller UK cities and remote regions, grounded its fleet on October 27 as financial pressures reached a critical point, the move temporarily shields Eastern Airways from creditors for up to 10 business days while it seeks potential rescue options or buyers.
“We deeply regret the impact this suspension has on our passengers and employees,” an Eastern Airways spokesperson said in a brief statement, confirming that all scheduled flights have been cancelled until further notice.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has urged passengers not to travel to airports, stating that anyone with bookings should contact their credit or debit card providers for refunds or chargebacks.
The airline was founded in 1997 and based at Humberside Airport, Eastern Airways is a UK regional airline that built its reputation connecting smaller cities and remote regions through vital domestic routes. Initially serving the oil and gas sector between Humberside and Aberdeen, it expanded after acquiring Air Kilroe in 1999 and later came under the ownership of the Bristow Group in 2014.
Operating turboprop aircraft like the BAe Jetstream 41, Eastern provided both scheduled and charter services, including Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes crucial for regional connectivity. Despite carrying about 1.3 million passengers annually, the airline faced mounting losses, reporting a £19.7 million deficit and £26 million debt in 2024.
On October 27, 2025, Eastern Airways suspended all flights and filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, citing rising costs and prolonged post-pandemic financial strain.
The airline’s network of regional routes including Aberdeen, Humberside, Teesside, Newquay, and Southampton was vital for connectivity in areas underserved by rail or road. Several of these services were operated under Public Service Obligation (PSO) contracts, meaning their suspension could severely affect regional accessibility, especially in northern England and Scotland.
The Eastern had already returned multiple aircraft to lessors and halted new ticket sales in the days leading up to the filing. Employees have been informed of the company’s deteriorating position, and industry observers warn that hundreds of jobs are now at risk.
The company’s grounding echoes recent struggles across the UK’s regional aviation market, with carriers facing surging fuel costs, higher lease payments, and limited government support.
