EasyJet Grounds its Entire Fleet

EasyJet has announced its decision to ground its entire fleet of aircraft, following country lockdowns, travel restrictions and changes to travel advice imposed across its network due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The airline said it could not put a firm date on restarting commercial flights, also adding that it will continue to evaluate the situation based on regulations and demand.

EasyJet’s last rescue flight was operated on Sunday, March 29.

“Over recent days easyJet has been helping to repatriate customers, having operated more than 650 rescue flights to date, returning home more than 45,000 customers… We will continue to work with government bodies to operate additional rescue flights as requested,” the airline said in an announcement.

Meanwhile, easyJet will place its cabin crew on a two-month leave of absence, starting on April 1.

The airline said it would not need a bailout, adding that it “maintains a strong balance sheet” and is in “ongoing discussions with liquidity providers”.