Links Air to go into liquidation

Links Air, the former Intra-Wales operator is about to go into liquidation according to information received by BBC Wales.

Doncaster based Links Air had its Air Operators Certificate suspended by the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority in October 2015 following safety concerns. It then withdrew without notice from the government subsidised Cardiff to Anglesey Intra-Wales route in January 2016.

Many passengers who booked with Links prior to their suspension are still trying to get refunds.

There is to be a meeting of creditors on April 1st, 2016 when the company is expected to formally go into liquidation. Stella Flemmings, Redman Nichols Butler practice manager, said: “The directors of the company have asked us to assist them in putting the company into liquidation and there will be a creditors meeting on 1 April.”

Passenger Alan Hughes told the BBC that he was claiming a refund of £180 for return tickets purchased prior to their suspension. He said “As private individuals, we go to the end of the queue, don’t we. The taxman will take priority. From previous experience, {people have} ended up with nothing.” adding “I’m disappointed – I don’t want to give somebody £180 and not get anything back.”

A Welsh Government Spokesperson said: “Although this is a matter for Links Air and the administrator to resolve, we are aware that some passengers who had bookings with the company before it stopped operating the Intra Wales Air Service in January, have not received refunds from Links Air. This is wholly unacceptable and we hope the administrator considers these matters as part of the liquidation process.”

Citywing stepped in to provide the Intra-Wales service following the withdraw of Links Air.

Aviation Wales has asked the Links Air for a statement.