Powdair suspends launch after losing its backer

Powdair suspends launch after losing its backer

Swiss start-up Powdair has been forced to suspend the launch of its operations after its major backer walked away.

Sion-Based Powdair had planned to begin operations on the 11th December 2017 with flights from Sion (SIR/LSGS) to 8 key European destinations including Edinburgh, Manchester, Southampton, Bristol, London Luton and London Southend.

The airline, which has already taken over 5000 bookings, needs to find around £3m in order to commence operations as planned.

No reason was given for the backer walking away from Powdair other than it was for “personal reasons”.

Powdair‘s chief financial officer, Sean Pettit said “today’s setback is both unexpected and potentially disastrous for our airline, booked passengers and resort partners. Operational systems and strategies are already in place, whilst ticket sales are very strong and exceeding expectations. PowdAir is ready to go, but we now desperately need investment.” 

The airline had partnered with Ski resorts in the Swiss Valais region to get skiers and snowboarders closer to the resorts by using Sion airport rather than Geneva.

About Nick Harding 1897 Articles
Nick is the senior reporter and editor at UK Aviation News as well as working freelance elsewhere. He has his finger firmly on the pulse on Aviation, not only in the UK but worldwide. Nick has been asked to speak in a professional capacity on LBC, Heart and other broadcast networks.