liquidation

Global Airlines has ceased operations after being ordered into compulsory liquidation by the High Court.

A UK flight operator has ceased trading after being placed into compulsory liquidation. The move follows the company running out of funds, leaving it unable to launch any further flight schedules.

The High Court of Justice in London formally issued a winding-up order against Global Airlines on Wednesday, 4 November, after it failed to settle its debts, reports the Express.

The company, established by James Asquith, had ambitions to operate a fleet of Airbus A380 superjumbos for premium transatlantic travel. It ran a round trip from Glasgow to New York-JFK and a round trip from Manchester to New York-JFK.

It has now been confirmed that a winding-up petition has been granted. Former directors Tom Stokely and Prashant Uttamchandani joined the proceedings as supporting creditors and were represented by law firm Katten Muchin Rosenman.

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The company’s bank accounts have now been frozen while its assets are liquidated to repay creditors. Global Airlines remains listed on Companies House, though its most recent accounts are overdue, reports the Express.

On its website, the airline states: “We want to deliver the Best Way to Fly. And whether flying Global Traveller, Business or First, we believe we will.

“Flying to a variety of destinations all over the world, we will breathe new life into onboard product and service, working with some amazing brands, delivering genuine value for money for our passengers. And by embracing the latest technology and deploying it across every touch point, we can work smarter and deliver a Global experience that is unique to you.”

Global Airlines took to the skies for the first time on the route from Glasgow to New York in May, 2025. Just two months later, however, its fleet was relocated to Tarbes, France, for maintenance work.

The aircraft have remained grounded ever since and are now expected to be sold off in order to repay creditors.

Despite passenger demand hovering near record levels, the aviation industry continues to battle soaring costs and production backlogs. Adding to the sector’s woes, the US is facing a projected shortfall of nearly 30,000 pilots by 2030.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has sent jet fuel prices doubling and driven labour costs sharply upwards, leaving many budget airlines struggling to turn a profit as a result.

A worldwide backlog of more than 18,000 aircraft orders is also causing significant disruption. Manufacturers including Airbus and Boeing are contending with parts shortages, engine repair delays, and sluggish production rates.