PowdAir suspends the launch of its operations from Sion to 8 European cities (incl. Antwerp) after a financial backer walks away

The PowdAir journey commenced two years ago, with the intention to open up the Swiss Valais region to skiers, snowboarders and year-round mountain lovers across Europe. The end result would be significantly reduced journey times direct to Sion rather than Geneva, improved transfer connections to a resort, more time on holiday and, for second home owners, better access to their investment.

Powdair intended to start operations on 11 December, from Sion to eight European cities: Hamburg, Edinburgh, Manchester, Southampton, Bristol, London Luton, London Southend and Antwerp.

But this morning their key financial backer walked away for personal reasons.

There were two options left. Either postponing the start of PowdAir this winter – in which case, those who have already booked flights would be guaranteed a full refund. Or offering the airline to the army of passionate PowdAir supporters, in the hope that they would like to own a stake in PowdAir and benefit in its future shared success, if any.

In a nutshell…
• Over 5,000 people have already booked flights for this season
• More than 85 of them have signed up as Season Pass holders
• PowdAir has officially partnered with 17 resorts in the Valais and Portes du Soleil, including Verbier, Crans Montana, Nendaz, Anzere, Thyon 4 Vallées, Morzine, Champéry, Avoriaz, Châtel and Les Gets – and already have a raft of events and marketing activity planned with them
• PowdAir has been working with hundreds of Valais, British and Belgian businesses – big and small – to ensure that the PowdAir passengers benefit from everything that has already been developed.

Without funding, PowdAir is now facing the situation of needing to postpone the start of its flight schedule for this winter season*, which is currently set to commence on 11th December 2017.

However, with the support of its passengers, PowdAir claims it can still become a success and take off as planned this winter.

Potential investors can email to investors@powdair.ski immediately for further information.

A word from Sean Pettit, PowdAir’s Chief Financial Officer:

Just as the PowdAir operation begins to snowball, today’s setback is both unexpected and potentially disastrous for our airline, booked passengers and resort partners. Operational systems and strategies are already in place, whilst ticket sales are very strong and exceeding expectations. PowdAir is ready to go, but we now desperately need investment. I’d personally like to hear from anyone interested in owning either a small or large part of our airline.

PowdAir needs to secure at least £3 million to operate this season and at least £1 million by the end of this week in order to operate a reduced but efficient flight schedule this season.

*If you’re booked to fly between the 11-17 December, PowdAir will be contacting you directly to discuss your existing booking.