Posted on September 01, 2009 by Fiona Hilliard

Sky Europe Airlines has suspended operations in Europe, just hours after airport operators in Prague and Bratislava said they would ban the airline form landing at their airports because it was behind with payments. 

On its website, the airline had the following advice for ticket-holders:

“If you have ordered your flight tickets via a travel agency or organiser, you should discuss the matter with them first.

“You may also wish to contact your insurance provider to seek further guidance and support.”

The airline blames the global economic crisis for its downfall, which saw it reduce its fleet from 15 aircraft to 5 last year. 

Never one to miss a trick, Ryanair today launched a €25 “rescue fare” for Sky Europe passengers who may have been left stranded or have had their travel plans disrupted by the bankruptcy of the airline.

The fare includes Bratislava flights to/from Alicante, Barcelona (Girona), Brusels (Charleroi), Rome (Ciampino), Liverpool and London Stansted. 

We’re guessing the press release had been put on ice a while back, seeing as Ryanair had been displaying the message “Bye Bye Sky Europe” on its 737s since March.