Air operator Citywing is to go into liquidation.

All flights have been cancelled from today.

The shock announcement was made on the company’s Facebook page last night.

Citywing said it had found it difficult to source suitable aircraft to operate its services after Van Air lost its route licences on February 24.

The Department of Infrastructure said it is actively working to secure a new operator for the key routes which include Belfast, Blackpool, Gloucester, Glasgow and Newcastle.

In a statement, Citywing’s directors said: ’The company has tried to offer a service whilst suffering considerable losses but these have proved unfortunately to be commercially unsustainable.

’It is therefore with much sadness and deep regret that the directors of Citywing Aviation Services Limited have had to take the difficult decision to close the company today and put the company into liquidation. This decision has not been taken lightly and has been made to protect creditors.

’On behalf of all at Citywing, we all apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank you all for your support over the last four years.’

Passengers are being asked not to turn up at the airport for their flights as there will be no one from Citywing there to help them.

A liquidator will be appointed and will advise in due course on how to get a refund on tickets.

There will also be guidance on the UK CAA website from Monday (March 13) at www.caa.co.uk/home/

Van Air lost its route licences after the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) investigated an incident during Storm Doris in which a Citywing flight to Belfast had to return to Ronaldsway due to deteriorating weather conditions.

It landed safely and passengers were taken by bus to the terminal but the aircraft could not be moved in the high winds, resulting in both runways being closed.

In a statement the DoI said: ’The DoI is very sad to lose a company that has contributed so much to the Isle of Man’s air services to the UK.

’The department is actively working to secure a new operator for the key routes as soon as possible. An update will be provided when further information is available.

’Citywing passengers are advised not the attend the airport, as no flights will be operating on the company’s routes. Citywing will attempt to contact customers who have booked flights.

’The department of Infrastructure wishes to thank passengers for their patience and cooperation at this time.’

Passengers on the Cardiff to Anglesey service have been advised that their Citywing tickets will be valid on train services out of Cardiff, and from stations between Bangor and Holyhead.