Regional carrier Silver Airways announced today it has ceased all flight operations, effective immediately, leaving an untold number of passengers stranded at airports across Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean.
The abrupt shutdown comes after a failed attempt by the airline to restructure through Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.
“Please do not go to the airport,” the Hollywood, Florida-based company posted on its website, confirming the immediate cessation of flights. The statement further explained that Silver had sold its assets through the bankruptcy process to an unnamed holding company, which “unfortunately has determined to not continue Silver’s flight operations.”
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Silver Airways served five cities in Florida and 11 island destinations, making it a crucial link for many travelers in the region. Passengers affected by the sudden closure are being advised to seek refunds through their credit card issuer or travel agency.
The airline, which began operations in 2011 and once served 28 destinations, had significantly scaled back its operations in recent times. Its fleet had been reduced to just eight ATR turboprop planes, and its workforce cut from 608 to 348 pilots, flight attendants, and ground workers. An email sent to employees from Silver’s CEO reportedly stated that most of these remaining jobs will be eliminated.
While Silver Airways’ operations have ground to a halt, its subsidiary based in Puerto Rico, Seaborne Airlines, will continue to operate in the Caribbean, according to the announcement.
The decision to shutter Silver Airways was made by the new airline holding company that acquired Silver’s assets during the bankruptcy restructuring attempt. The move has led to widespread disruption and frustration for travelers who had booked flights with the carrier. For some airports, like Tallahassee International Airport, Silver Airways was one of only three airlines offering service.
