Loch Lomond Seaplanes is hoping talks with financial advisers will enable it to resume services after it suddenly ceased trading.
The announcement on its website on Friday left customers who had booked flights out of pocket and comes just weeks after the company ordered two no-emission planes from a Norwegian manufacturer.
Loch Lomond Seaplanes was founded in 2003 by David West, who offered regular flights between Loch Lomond and the Isle of Skye. It became popular with tourists and celebrities on holiday or using it during filming.
However, the owner David West fears the firm could face administration, though he is due to begin talks with advisers and is hopeful of resuming services.
He recently signed a deal with Norway’s Elfly Group to acquire two no-emission seaplanes, with an option to purchase three more.
At the time he said: “There is huge demand for a flying boat style seaplane, and one that produces no emissions is all the better.”
Since 2004 Loch Lomond Seaplanes has flown almost 200,000 passengers, more than 1.9 million miles around Scotland.
Based next to the five-star Cameron House Hotel on the banks of Loch Lomond, in the heart of Scotland’s first national park, the company is regarded as one of the world’s foremost seaplane operators.
Tourists who have purchased tickets are expected to be contacted, but in the meantime, all flights have been cancelled.
A pop-up message on the website states: “Please be advised that Loch Lomond Seaplanes has ceased trading. If you have tickets or a flight booked then someone will be in touch in the near future.”
source