Air travel between London and Cornwall has been dramatically rescued just two weeks after the previous operator collapsed into administration. Skybus, operated by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, has launched an emergency service to maintain the vital connection.
From collapse to comeback
The route faced uncertainty when Eastern Airways entered administration on November 7, leaving passengers fearing the end of direct air links between the capital and southwest England. The regional airline had provided regular services between Cornwall's Newquay Airport and London Gatwick until its sudden collapse.
Skybus moved quickly to fill the void, announcing that flights would recommence on November 23 with tickets already available for purchase. The Cornish operator describes the intervention as temporary but has ambitious plans to develop the route further.
Affordable and efficient travel returns
Passengers can now book flights starting from £79.99 for a single journey, which includes generous luggage allowances of 15kg hold baggage and 6kg cabin luggage plus a handbag. This represents significant value compared to rail alternatives, where return tickets often exceed £100 even with railcard discounts.
The time savings are equally compelling. While the train journey takes over five hours, the flight covers the distance in just one hour and 15 minutes, making it the fastest option for Londoners seeking to reach Cornwall.
Expansion plans already announced
Initially, the service will operate with one flight per day, but capacity will double from February 14, 2026, when two daily flights will be introduced. The company aims to establish the route as what managing director Jonathan Hinkles called a 'thriving cornerstone' of the local economy.
Due to the urgent nature of the takeover, Skybus has leased a 70-seater ATR72 aircraft from Jersey-based Blue Islands to operate the route. This turboprop model is recognised as the world's most popular regional aircraft.
Skybus, which normally focuses on local Cornish routes including services to the Isles of Scilly, Land's End and Exeter, brings over four decades of aviation experience to the London-Cornwall connection. Mr Hinkles emphasised that reliable air links are crucial for the region's economy, supporting business, tourism and local communities.
