Skybus Rescues Vital Newquay-London Air Link After Eastern Airways Collapse

Skybus, a regional airline operated by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, is set to resume the crucial Newquay to London Gatwick flight route following the unexpected collapse of Eastern Airways. The service, vital for Cornwall’s connectivity, will recommence on November 23rd, initially with daily flights, and is expected to increase to twice daily on weekdays from February 2026. This move ensures continued air access for businesses and tourists, preventing further isolation for the region.

Key Takeaways

• Skybus will operate the Newquay-London Gatwick route starting November 23rd.
• The service was suspended due to the collapse of Eastern Airways.
• Flights will initially be daily, increasing to twice-daily on weekdays from February 2026.
• Skybus will use a 70-seat ATR72 aircraft, a significant expansion for the airline.
• A temporary aircraft will be used initially, with Skybus’s own ATR72 expected mid-2026.

A Lifeline Restored

The suspension of the Newquay to London Gatwick route by Eastern Airways left a significant gap in Cornwall’s transport infrastructure. Skybus, a carrier with over 40 years of aviation experience and a long-standing partner of Cornwall Airport Newquay, has stepped in to fill this void. This temporary contract, secured through an expedited tender process with Cornwall Council, aims to restore confidence and reliability for passengers.

Increased Capacity and Future Plans

Skybus will initially operate the route using a 70-seat ATR72 aircraft, a considerable step up from the smaller planes typically used for its Isles of Scilly services. This larger aircraft will enhance capacity and efficiency on the route. While a temporary aircraft sourced from Blue Islands will be used for the initial launch, Skybus anticipates its own ATR72 entering service in mid-2026. This expansion is seen as a pivotal moment for Skybus, marking a significant growth in its operational capabilities.

Economic and Community Impact

Officials and business leaders have welcomed Skybus’s intervention, highlighting the route’s importance for economic growth, tourism, and the overall connectivity of Cornwall. Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Skybus, emphasized the airline’s commitment to rebuilding the route as a “thriving cornerstone of the local economy.” The service is not only crucial for direct travel between Cornwall and London but also offers potential for seamless onward connections to the Isles of Scilly, further benefiting the region.

A New Era for Skybus

This new route represents a major strategic expansion for Skybus. While the airline is accustomed to operating smaller aircraft like the Britten-Norman Islander and De Havilland Canada Twin Otter for its lifeline services to the Isles of Scilly, the introduction of the ATR72 signifies a new chapter. The airline’s focus remains on providing a dependable and reliable service, ensuring that Cornwall maintains its vital link to the capital and beyond.

Sources

• Tiny UK airline rescues popular London route after rival goes bust, Metro.co.uk.
• Newquay flight route to London to be restored later this month, BBC.
• You’ll Soon Be Able To Fly Directly From A Major London Airport To This Stunning Coastal Town That’s Home To
  
  One Of The Best Beaches In The World, Secret London.
• Skybus to launch new London-Newquay air link with ATR72, AeroTime.
• Skybus to take over Newquay-Gatwick service from Eastern Airways, LARA Magazine.