Major airline plunges into administration and cancels all flights – in business since 1992 | World | News
A leading airline has been forced to cancel all its flights after falling into administration.
Smartlynx Airlines had been operating since 1992 but was forced to cease all services after financial difficulties that began in the fall of 2025.
All aircraft were grounded after attempts to rescue the Latvia-based carrier failed. The airline had built a reputation by supplying European operators such as easyJet, which put its own branding on otherwise unmarked aircraft. In recent years, the carrier has expanded its operations to India.
The airline has significantly expanded its fleet to meet growing demand between 2023 and 2024, carrying more than 10 million passengers in a single year. IndiGo has served customers such as Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet, AirTransat, DHL and others through dedicated ACMI and charter arrangements.
However, on 24 November 2025, the company confirmed it would close completely, leaving it £206 million in debt to the Latvian government and £433,000 in unpaid taxes.
The collapse marked the end of one of Europe’s longest-established wet lease and charter operators after 33 years in business.
The airline said: “This decision came after a thorough assessment of our situation and long-term outlook and was not taken lightly.
“We started as a small Latvian airline with big dreams, and over 33 years we have grown into an international family known for its resilience, adaptability and never-backing-down spirit.” According to Express, the airline, which left behind a “real legacy”, also paid tribute to its thousands of personnel. He continued: “SmartLynx has always been built by its people – passionate professionals from every corner of the world who face every challenge with determination.
“Together, we have filled the last thirty years with unforgettable moments: days and nights in the sky, flights around the world, the opening of new bases, the formation of new teams and many special stories.
“These moments, created by thousands of dedicated colleagues over three decades, are the true legacy of SmartLynx. To our teams, partners, customers, and friends—thank you.”
