Suspension of Eastern Airways flights will have ‘major effect’

The suspension of Eastern Airways flights could have a “major effect” on travel, the Business Travel Association warned today.

The concern was raised by BTA chief executive Clive Wratten less than 24 hours after the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that the regional airline suspended operations.

He revealed that members of the association supported more than 1,600 Eastern Airways passengers this year, “meaning we anticipate a major effect on both business and leisure travel”. 

This was especially on vital routes between the northeast and Aberdeen, and Gatwick and Newquay. 

Wratten said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the Eastern Airways employees and all those affected by this sudden suspension of operations. 

“Their contribution to keeping the UK connected across regional and specialist routes has been hugely valued by the business travel community.”

He added: “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.

"Strengthening our rail network has never been more important, alongside Public Service Obligations routes such as those linking London and Newquay. These connections are essential to maintaining mobility, productivity, and opportunity across the country.”

Meanwhile, Ryanair has stepped in with £29.99 ‘rescue fares’ on the Stansted-Newquay route to assist passengers who had planned to travel on Eastern flights from Gatwick to Cornwall.

The no-frills carrier operates six flights a week to Newquay from Stansted.