Czech Airlines (CSA), one of the oldest airlines in the world, officially ended its operations on Sunday, October 27. Founded over a century ago, CSA was deregistered and has since transferred its services to the low-cost carrier Smartwings, which has taken over its remaining operations and routes.
The decision to liquidate CSA was made in August after numerous attempts by the Czech government to prevent the carrier's bankruptcy. Despite these efforts, CSA has struggled with financial setbacks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and had not operated any long-haul flights since April 2020, when its only long-haul route to Seoul was canceled.
CSA bid farewell with its final flights to Paris and Madrid last Saturday, marking the end of its membership in the Skyteam alliance, led by Air France-KLM and Delta. As a result, CSA loyalty program members saw their miles expire, and the airline's booking code was returned to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
CSA was once a regional leader in long-haul services, but unsuccessful attempts at privatization and a failed partnership with South Korea’s Korean Air contributed to its financial difficulties. Now, Smartwings, which has 49 aircraft, including bases in Poland, Germany, and the Canary Islands, will assume CSA’s operations, though discussions of selling Smartwings are ongoing. Co-owner Jiří Šimáně confirmed interest from potential buyers but has yet to disclose further details.
The closure of CSA marks the end of an era for Czech aviation, with Smartwings now set to operate as the leading Czech airline.
