Penzance Helicopters forced to suspend flights to Isles of Scilly until March 2021
Bosses say they've received no financial help from the government during the coronavirus pandemic
Helicopter flights between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have been temporarily suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Penzance Helicopters has announced that all flight between the town, Tresco and St Mary's will not be running over the winter, with plans to resume flights in March 2021.
In a statement, the transport provider said it had received no support from the Department for Transport, despite its best efforts.
Over the coming days, company bosses said it will contact all passengers who are affected and are working closely with Skybus to transfer bookings. However, passengers also have the option of a full refund.
Although the company have been forced to suspend its services, bosses want to ensure that "all of the Isles of Scilly’s transport links emerge stronger, more unified, and ready to deliver a bright future for the islands" - and is looking forward to welcoming passenger back on Wednesday 10th March.
"Despite the unprecedented global situation, we have been privileged to welcome thousands of passengers onboard during our first season – islanders, visitors, first-time passengers and familiar faces. We are proud to have already had a positive impact on the islands and are immensely grateful for the support of our passengers, local residents and team.
"However, continuing uncertainty around lockdown has severely curtailed demand for travel to and from the Isles of Scilly this winter.
"Although the Department for Transport funding underpins the majority of operators to the Islands, no such support has been provided to Penzance Helicopters, despite our best efforts.
"Against this backdrop, the Isles of Scilly’s travel providers must now work together to bolster our broader transport system and provide clarity for passengers. We have therefore made the difficult decision temporarily to suspend helicopter services until early spring.
"Helicopter flights between Penzance, Tresco and St Mary’s will resume on 10th March 2021.
"Over the coming days, we will contact all affected passengers and we are working closely with Skybus to transfer impacted bookings. Passengers will also have the option of a full refund should they wish.
"We ask that you allow us to contact you so that we can help everyone as quickly as possible.
"We have always believed in the importance of strengthening the Isles of Scilly’s entire transport system to support growth for all the islands.
"In this spirit, our collaborative response to this unprecedented situation will ensure that all of the Isles of Scilly’s transport links emerge stronger, more unified, and ready to deliver a bright future for the islands.
"We look forward to welcoming you back to Penzance Helicopters in March."
Spokesperson, Penzance Helicopters