Bern’s SkyWork could be grounded at end of month

SkyWork currently serves some 17 destinations from the Swiss capital Keystone

SkyWork Airlines, which flies to various European destinations from Bern Airport, may be forced to cease operations by the end of October due to its unstable financial situation. 

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The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) has limited SkyWork’s operating permit to the end of this month because the company is unable to meet its financial commitments for its 2017 and 2018 winter schedule. 

If the company can ensure a solid financial footing by the time its permit expires on October 31, it will be allowed to continue operations. 

Airlines operating in Switzerland must demonstrate to the FOCA that their financial situation allows for the safe operation of flights. The office therefore regularly monitors airlines’ finances and must withdraw or limit their operating licences if they find insufficient funds. 

A FOCA statement says it has “intensified its monitoring activities” of SkyWork and its financial situation “for some time now”. 

SkyWork, founded in 1983, has its hub at Bern Airport, formerly called Bern-Belp Airport, outside the Swiss capital. It serves 17 European airports including Amsterdam, London, Munich, Hamburg and several holiday destinations.