A prominent airline has been forced to ground all flights after entering administration.
Smartlynx Airlines had operated since 1992 but was forced to halt all services following mounting financial difficulties that began in autumn 2025.
Every aircraft was grounded after attempts to rescue the Latvian-based carrier proved unsuccessful. The airline had built its reputation supplying European operators such as easyJet, which would place its own branding on the otherwise unmarked aircraft. In recent years, the carrier has even expanded its operations into India.
Between 2023 and 2024, the airline dramatically expanded its fleet to meet growing demand, carrying more than 10 million passengers within a single year. It served clients including IndiGo, AnadoluJet of Turkish Airlines, AirTransat, DHL and others through tailored ACMI and charter arrangements.
However, on 24 November 2025, the company confirmed it would shut down entirely, leaving debts of £206m and unpaid taxes of £433,000 owed to the Latvian government.
The collapse marked the end of one of Europe’s most established wet-lease and charter operators after 33 years of trading.
The airline said: “This decision comes after a thorough assessment of our situation and long-term outlook, and it was not taken lightly.
“We started as a small Latvian airline with big dreams, and over 33 years grew into an international family known for resilience, adaptability, and a spirit that never backed down.” Leaving behind a “true legacy”, the airline also paid tribute to its thousands of staff members, Express reports. It continued: “SmartLynx has always been built by its people – passionate professionals from all corners of the world who took on every challenge with determination.
“Together, we filled the last three decades with moments that won’t be forgotten: days and nights in the skies, flights all over the world, new bases opening, new teams forming, and lots of special stories.
“These moments, created by thousands of dedicated colleagues over three decades, are the true legacy of SmartLynx. To our teams, partners, clients, and friends – thank you.”
