Two Stansted flights to Washington and New York due to leave on Monday night were cancelled and a flight from Birmingham to Malaga was already in flight when the news broke.
The failure comes after 14 years of operating for the Riga-based carrier, which started out as a short-haul operator in Europe and the Middle East.
More recently, it established itself as a low-cost, long-haul airline out of Europe and the UK.
In a message to customers, the airline’s Board said it had been working relentlessly to secure long-term financing but had no other choice but to file for bankruptcy.
It blamed tough competition, high fuel costs and several ‘unforeseen misfortunate events’ in the last two years, including having to lose an aircraft due to severe corrosion problems, leading to a loss of €10 million.
The Civil Aviation Authority has issued advice for affected passengers, telling them the airline was not covered by its ATOL protection scheme.
It said passengers who booked with a credit, charge or debit card might be able to make a claim against their card provider, but are likely to be asked for a negative response letter. It said this letter will be published shortly.
Passengers who are overseas must make their own arrangements to return home and are being advised to contact their travel insurer or agent for assistance.
A statement from the airline, posted on the Primera website reads:
“Airline Primera Air and IATA codes PF and 6F have been suspended as of today, October 2nd, 2018.
“On behalf of Primera Air team, we would like to thank you for your loyalty. On this sad day we are saying Goodbye to all of you.
“Please visit primeraair.com for further updates in next few days. Tour Operator passengers are kindly suggested to address their Tour Operators and Agents for further information and actions.
“Kindly understand that the usual options for contacts (via email or phone) can not be offered any longer.”
