Swissport UK goes bust; 750 jobs gone

Swissport UK, which provides check-in and other ground-handling facilities at London’s Heathrow airport, has folded with the loss of some 750 jobs. According to the online news provider Ananova, the company ceased operational activities early this morning (Tuesday), with four other companies already providing cover at the airport’s four terminals. The company provided check-in staff for 11 carriers at the airport: Aer Lingus, El Al, IcelandAir, Cyprus Airways, Swiss, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Hellas, Middle East Airlines, Air China, and the Turkish carrier Kibris. A spokesman for the airport operator BAA is quoted as saying: “Airlines involved have put in their own contingency plans into operation and everything is going smoothly. “We are working closely with all the affected airlines to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum. People travelling with these carriers are advised to contact their airline.” Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad Ltd