Cornwall-London PSO route running at ‘massive loss’

Thursday, 15 Jan, 2026 0

Subsidised flights from the West Country to London are running at a major operating loss, according to a Cornwall councillor.

Flights from Cornwall to London are currently operating about 80% empty, says Andrew Mitchell.

He made the shock claim in a council meeting discussing the subsidised flights and losses accrued by Eastern Airways.

The air route is a Public Service Obligation flight and partly funded by the taxpayer.

It was operated by Eastern Airways until it folded.

The councillor claims demand hasn’t improved since new PSO provider Skybus took over the route in November.

It comes after local media reported Newquay airport is owed nearly £1.6 million by Eastern Airways.

It is unlikely to see that repaid.



 

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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.



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