A British carrier has announced the suspension of its operations starting today (April 3), citing among other factors the dramatic increase in worldwide fuel prices triggered by the persistent conflict in the Middle East.
Skybus disclosed it has also terminated all services linking Cornwall with the capital following a marked decline in advance bookings after the February declaration concerning the intended shutdown of the Public Service Obligation air link.
The Newquay Airport to London Gatwick timetable constituted a PSO requirement financed jointly by Cornwall Council and the Department for Transport, having commenced operations in November 2025.
The route had been scheduled for discontinuation on May 31, yet it has concluded ahead of schedule, according to ITV.
Skybus chief executive Jonathan Hinkles explained that the substantial surge in international fuel expenses resulting from the Gulf conflict, alongside a notable fall in fresh ticket reservations since mid-February’s notification of the proposed closure of the PSO route, presents an insurmountable obstacle to maintaining operations throughout April and May.
Hinkles added that in an era marked by considerable financial instability and efforts to minimise energy consumption globally, operating with considerably reduced passenger loads makes neither environmental nor financial sense for the organisation.
In the same announcement, Hinkles also expressed heartfelt appreciation to travellers, Skybus staff members, and local partners.
He further stated that the company wishes to express sincere gratitude to everyone who has stood by them, whether as customers, community partners, or dedicated team members providing service to passengers, throughout the recent period operating the Cornwall-London air connection.
The concluding departure from Newquay Airport to London Gatwick took place on Thursday (April 2), and all individuals with subsequently cancelled reservations will receive reimbursement, the carrier has indicated.
Skybus announced that due to circumstances outside their influence, the company has informed Cornwall Council that operations will now terminate ahead of the originally planned date. The final journeys in both directions occurred on Thursday, 2 April 2026. The carrier further stated it is reaching out to all passengers holding reservations throughout April and May to inform them that flights will not proceed as originally scheduled.
Additional Skybus UK destinations encompass the Isles of Scilly, Exeter, and Land’s End.
On its digital platform, the airline describes its background, noting that for more than four decades, Skybus has honourably linked the Isles of Scilly to the mainland, offering a dependable, welcoming service that passengers have come to rely upon. Skybus represents far more than an airline; it forms a vital component of the local community. Established on 9th August 1984 by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, Skybus launched with a solitary 8-seat Britten-Norman Islander aircraft providing charter flights. Just three years subsequently in 1987 the company inaugurated scheduled services and has continued expanding since. From those initial operations, the fleet has grown to comprise 5 DHC Twin Otters, 3 Britten-Norman Islanders, and an ATR-72 aircraft, transporting thousands of passengers annually. The company has been operating from Newquay and Exeter for over thirty years and takes pride in being Cornwall Airport Newquay’s most longstanding carrier.
Concerning its London Gatwick to Newquay corridor, Skybus noted that its customers could experience the same friendly reception and outstanding service that has characterised Skybus for forty years.
Newsquest has approached Skybus for response.
Multiple British travel firms have encountered difficulties in 2026 thus far, with Edinburgh-headquartered EcoJet Airlines entering administration.
Additionally, four other British travel businesses have also ceased trading this year, leading to the cancellation of flights and package holidays to international destinations, such as:
Regen Central Ltd
Gold Crest Holidays
Asiara UK Ltd
Simply Florida Travel Ltd
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