EuroManx goes into receivership

Rising fuel prices and a fall in passenger numbers is partly to blame

A Manx-based airline has gone into receivership following a rise in fuel prices and a fall in passenger numbers.

EuroManx, which was set up in 2002, claims a number of factors have proved to be "insurmountable obstacles" and as such, the firm has stopped all flights.

Airlines Manx2 and Flybe have stepped in to rescue stranded passengers.

Flybe will fly EuroManx passengers to Liverpool, Manchester and initially to Luton or Gatwick on available flights. Manx2 will fly passengers to Belfast.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet company has also offered help to passengers and says it can increase its capacity by using larger crafts, if there is demand.

Job losses

Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: "Viking is scheduled to operate the vast majority of Liverpool sailings, but Snaefell, which re-enters service on Monday is scheduled to operate a limited number.

"We do have the option of utilising the larger Viking to replace Snaefell on those sailings, should the demand be there."

About 70 people on the Isle of Man have lost their jobs as a result of the airline going into receivership.

A statement on EuroManx's website said: "It is with great regret that EuroManx have announced today that the company is ceasing operations forthwith with no further flights being operated.

"For the past five years EuroManx has focused on providing a locally based operation offering high quality schedules and services dedicated to the Isle of Man.

"During this time the employees have worked hard to develop and grow the business but over the last six months a number of factors including rising fuel prices and reduced passenger numbers have proved to be insurmountable obstacles."

Employee advice

Manx Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK said: "Government very much regrets this announcement by Euromanx...particularly as we have been working with the airline to help it secure its future.

"Government's immediate priority is to assist passengers...and we will be doing all we can to help them find alternative arrangements.

"This is a particularly difficult time for Euromanx staff, and Government will be providing advice and assistance to them in finding new employment."

Minister for Trade and Industry, Hon David Cretney MHK, said he would be meeting with affected staff to talk about opportunities in what he described as "the current buoyant labour market."

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