After only one week of service, financial problems have forced Varsity Express to cease flying.
The start-up carrier had inaugurated a daily service linking Oxford Airport with Edinburgh (see online news January 20 and February 10) and it is believed the flights had been well patronised.
A message on the airline’s website (flyvarsity.com) says that ticket sales are suspended until further notice. Passengers yet to travel are being alerted to the situation and are promised refunds.
Industry sources suggest that the carrier was underfunded right from the beginning. This ultimately led to a dispute between it (Varsity Express) and the operating carrier holding the AOC (Air Operator’s Certificate).
A spokeswoman for Oxford Airport claimed the “Flights were operating full and passenger acceptance was positive. Oxford airport is now in dialogue with a couple of established airlines who have shown interest in reinstating the link.”
For more information go to flyvarsity.com.
Report by Alex McWhirter
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