Loganair is stepping up to relieve disruption - and support staff - after Eastern Airways suspended operations as it teeters on the brink of collapse.
Eastern Airways - which is supported by the Scottish government to connect rural island and remote locations with Aberdeen and the rest of the mainland - filed a notice of its intention to appoint an administrator on Monday as several of its flights were cancelled.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed the airline has suspended operations and all of its flights had been cancelled.
Eastern Airways has been crucial to the North Sea offshore oil and gas industry for years, flying between UK cities with a significant presence in the sector such as Aberdeen, Humberside, Teesside and Wick.
It has run a weekday service between Wick John O'Groats Airport and Aberdeen, which is seen as vital for people living in the most northerly point on mainland UK.
But Loganair is now introducing a special "rescue fare" on some of its routes in a bid to ease the impact on passengers.
A spokesperson said: "Following widespread speculation concerning Eastern Airways operations, we’re stepping in to support passengers in any way we can.
"As part of our commitment to keeping the islands connected, we’re introducing a special rescue fare on our Aberdeen/Kirkwall and Aberdeen/Sumburgh routes to assist affected Eastern Airways customers in reaching their destinations with minimal disruption.
"More information on how to book can be found here: https://lnkd.in/dxnEyqU6"
Eastern Airways staff have also been invited to contact Loganair as their jobs are cast into doubt.
The spokesperson continued: "We are also here to support affected Eastern Airways team members in any way we can. You can reach out to the Loganair Recruitment Team via email - crewrecruitment@loganair.co.uk
"As part of the wider aviation community, we stand in solidarity with our colleagues, customers, and partners affected, and we extend our empathy and support."
Loganair CEO Luke Farajallah also reacted to the news: "Like many across our industry, I am deeply saddened to hear reports that Eastern Airways (UK) Ltd may be entering administration and that it has suspended all its operations. For decades, Eastern Airways has been an important part of the UK’s regional aviation story, serving communities with dedication, connecting people and places often beyond the reach of larger airlines, and doing so with a true spirit of service.
"The news will be deeply unsettling for everyone at Eastern, from flight crews and engineers to operations and customer service teams. These are professionals who have given so much to keep Britain connected through some of the most challenging times our industry has ever seen.
"At Loganair Limited we’ve shared airspace, airports, and a common purpose with Eastern Airways for many years. We’ve competed, we’ve collaborated, and above all, we’ve respected the professionalism and resilience of their people.
"To everyone affected please know that our thoughts are with you. Aviation is, above all else, a people business, and today our thoughts are firmly with the people of Eastern Airways and their families.
"Loganair Limited will be offering rescue fares for stranded passengers, as well as offering jobs for suitably qualified professionals. Please go to our website at Loganair.co.uk."