ISTANBUL

British airline Flybe entered administration Thursday, according to the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority.

The agency said all the carrier's flights were cancelled.

"Flybe customers are urged to make their own alternative travel arrangements via other airlines, rail or coach operators," it said.

The company, established in 1979, faced several financial difficulties before and blamed the collapse on effects on air travel demand stemming from the coronavirus outbreak.

"Very sad that @flybe has gone out of business after serving passengers for four decades," tweeted Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps.

Shapps stressed the government will try to help staff find new jobs in travel or other sectors.

He noted official institutions and airports will assist passengers in finding alternative travel via airline, train and bus operators.