Sale of Plymouth-based airline Air Southwest completed

The airline was created in 2003 when British Airways pulled out of the region

The sale of Plymouth-based airline Air Southwest to Eastern Airways has been completed, it has been announced.

Sutton Harbour Holdings made the decision to sell in May after the airline's operating profits fell.

The company said it lost £7m in the sale, but added that joining a larger company gave it the best opportunity for a positive future.

Sutton Harbour is still owner of Plymouth City Airport. Air Southwest was created in 2003.

The company employs about 150 people and flies to UK regional airports, as well as the Republic of Ireland and the Channel Islands.

The airline is expected to continue flying under its existing brand and staff will be employed by Air Southwest.

Humberside-based Eastern Airways employs 420 staff and operates a fleet of 30 aircraft serving 21 destinations in the UK, Ireland, Norway and France.