AeroMorning January 21, 2026

Air Antilles, the regional French airline serving the Caribbean islands, has officially filed for bankruptcy protection (cessation de paiements) at the Pointe‑à‑Pitre mixed commercial court in Guadeloupe, after failing to meet financial obligations.

Internal Letter of January 16, 2026

In an internal letter to employees dated Friday, January 16, 2026, Louis Mussington, Chairman of Air Antilles’ Board of Directors (and President of the Territorial Authority of Saint‑Martin), announced the filing of the cessation de paiements declaration. He stated that, despite all efforts and considerable work by the teams, the company’s financial situation no longer allows it to meet its commitments.

He also praised the professionalism and solidarity of employees, and noted that the premature halt of operations resulted from the suspension of the Airline Operator Certificate and Air Transport License in early December 2025, right in the middle of the high season—depriving the airline of essential revenues.

Financial Collapse and Judicial Proceedings

Media reports indicate that following the operational shutdown, the airline filed a request for judicial restructuring (redressement judiciaire) with the court in Pointe‑à‑Pitre. This filing comes after efforts to attract new investors failed, leaving the company effectively without cash: “The cash box is empty.”

The court must now decide whether to allow judicial restructuring, which could enable the company to continue under supervision, or to order liquidation.

Relevant Background

Since December 8, 2025, Air Antilles’ aircraft have been grounded following suspension of its operating license by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) due to significant safety concerns, which further worsened the financial situation.

Previously, the airline had obtained an extension of its operating license until January 31, 2026, offering a temporary reprieve to find investors—but this extension ultimately was insufficient.

Summary

• Air Antilles has declared bankruptcy (cessation de paiements) and filed for judicial restructuring.
• The January 16, 2026 internal letter from Louis Mussington confirms this action.
• Suspension of its operating license in December 2025 was a key contributing factor.

The Pointe‑à‑Pitre commercial court will decide the airline’s legal fate.