XL Airways France liquidated after turbulent history

Last-ditch attempts to save XL Airways France have failed, after a commercial court declared the airline would be liquidated, ending a turbulent history for an airline which had undergone multiple ownership changes over the past 15 years. All flights by the Paris-based carrier, which had previously been suspended until 7 October, have been permanently cancelled. Insolvency procedures against XL Airways France had opened at the Bobigny commercial court on 23 September, granting time for the airline to secure a rescuer. But this effort failed and the carrier says a hearing at the court on 4 October has resulted in the liquidation decision. "We apologise for the inconvenience this situation may have caused our valuable customers," it states. The airline had been the subject of a reported investment offer, linked to shareholders of recently-collapsed Aigle Azur, but this appears not to have gained momentum. XL Airways says some airlines – including French Bee and Corsair – are offering "rescue fares" for passengers, and it is advising customers with package holiday agreements to contact their tour operator for assistance. Originally known as Star Europe and then Star Airlines – an acronym for Societe de Transport Aerien Regional – the French carrier had initially been associated with tour operator Look Voyages. Story has more background.<br/>