Has Surrendered Its Air Operator Certificate, Will Seek Bankruptcy Protection

Financially troubled SkyWork Airline, a European regional carrier which provided up to 60 percent of the flights into and out of Bern, Switzerland, has ceased operations and surrendered its air operating certificate to Swill aviation authorities.

SkyWork announced the closure in a news release posted on its website Thursday. "SkyWork Airlines has stopped operations with immediate effect. We would like to thank you for your loyalty during the past seven years," the announcement said.

The blog Aeronautics reports that the move affected about 11,000 passengers. In a separate news release, the airline said "SkyWork Airlines has decided to hand in its operating license to FOC. As required by law, the company, given its over-indebtedness, has now informed the relevant bankruptcy judge who will oversee proceedings. After failed negotiations with a possible partner, the economic conditions are no longer given to continue the operation"

The Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) posted additional information on its website for SkyWork customers. The agency has asked IATA to activate the voluntary agreement for airlines to repatriate stranded passengers and has also held talks with Swiss airlines. Several airlines are offering their return journey at a reduced fare (so-called rescue fare) to passengers who are currently stranded abroad.

These fares are valid on flights and return flights up to and including September 13, 2018, subject to availability . The respective tariffs determine the airlines. The general transport conditions of the respective airline (GTC) apply. Passengers must contact the airline concerned to inquire about the return flight options and fare and make the booking.

Those airlines include:

• Swiss International Air Lines Ltd (with Austrian Airlines, LH-Group, Brussels Airlines)
• Helvetic Airways
• Germania
• easyJet (with easyJet Switzerland, easyJet Europe, EasyJet UK)

(Image from SkyWork YouTube video)

FMI: www.bazl.admin.ch/bazl/en/home/good-to-know/informationen-skywork-passagiere.html