SEA is organized and incorporated at Edinburgh in the spring of 1984. Orders are placed for SAAB-Fairchild SF340s and certificates are received from the CAA. Although it is hoped to begin flying in 1985, operations do not actually commence.
The operating authority of failed Chieftain Airways, Ltd. is acquired in early 1988. Managing Director David Short obtains two British Aerospace
BAe (HS) 748-B2s and inaugurates services from Glasgow Airport to Frankfurt and Brussels in 1989. In May, Short announces that equity in the airline has been doubled through an investment by a group of local businessmen.
A total of 20,000 passengers are carried on the year.
In February 1990, a major infusion of capital is received from several companies, including Air UK Group and FFV Aerotech. The funds provided are employed to acquire two BAC 1-11 jetliners, once owned by Braniff International Airways, and the route network is expanded from European cities to Edinburgh and Newcastle. Unable to attract sufficient boardings to cover expenses, the carrier sees its BAes grounded for nonpayment of debts and fees. The carrier enters liquidation in April.
Prior to its failure, a total of 1,813 passengers are transported on the year.
Touche Ross administrator Robin Wilson attempts to revive the carrier in 1991. Approval is obtained from the creditors for a plan under which an Ali Ghandour-led consortium will purchase and restart the airline; the scheme is submitted to the government, which gives its approval in January on condition that the regional be fully funded by April. When capitalization is not forthcoming, all route licenses are revoked and all further rescue efforts cease in July. The liquidation process, on hold over a year, is completed.
World History
